AFTER 16 long years, the New Zealand Silver Ferns claimed the coveted World Cup title against world number ones Australia. with key match-ups across the court we cast an eye on one integral match-up in each third.

CAITLIN BASSETT (GS) v. JANE WATSON (GK)

The Australian captain did not have it all her own way in the goal circle with talented defender Jane Watson well and truly dictating the space and forcing uncharacteristic turnovers from the experienced goal shooter. Watson contested each and every ball, causing headaches in the Australian attack end with her long reach and impeccable timing allowing her to get timely tips and deflections to repel any forward thrusts from the Diamonds. The battle was intense with both players fighting hard for prime position in the circle and using their feet to try and outmanoeuvre one another. Bassett made the most of her opportunities under the post nailing 35 goals from 40 attempts at 88 per cent. She was a real staple hold in the attack end pulling in high balls and edging closer to the post each time. But Watson was not over-awed by the occasion, standing up time and time again with two gains, two intercepts and three deflections to arguably win the battle between the two.

LIZ WATSON (C) v. LAURA LANGMAN (C)

The battle was intense through the midcourt with Laura Langman showcasing her dominance with her gut running and strength. The veteran centre did not disappoint throwing her body into every contest and tussling hard on the circle edge to secure prime position. Her pin point passes into the goal circle, impressive timing and defensive pressure made her hard to match with Liz Watson struggling at times to go with her. Though Liz Watson lost the battle she was arguably Australia’s best player on the court, attacking each pass and using her precision to deliver carefully crafted passes in the goal circle. Watson worked tirelessly throughout the match running both ways and applying back-up play across the court. She led the goal assist column for the Diamonds with 21 while Langman racked them up for the Ferns with 20 along with one gain and two pick-ups.

JO WESTON (GD) v. AMELIARRANE EKENASIO (GA)

Ameliaranne Ekenasio continued her hot form throughout the game with her timely shots and lovely drives into the circle causing all sorts of dramas for the Diamonds. The talented shooter made the most of her opportunities under the post with her slick footwork allowing her to edge closer to the post while also showcasing her range to score from anywhere inside the ring. Her strong drives created plenty of space in the attacking third and her strength to take the ball at full flight impressed. She was evenly matched in the opening half by Diamonds defender Jo Weston who won her fair share of the ball and applied strong hands over pressure to force turnovers and missed shots. Ekenasio consistently stood up under pressure only missing two goals for the game, with 24 goals from her 26 attempts at 92 per cent while Weston notched up five gains, three intercepts and one deflection in a gallant effort for her nation.