Netball team still unbeaten

Press, 16 June 1983, Page 32

Netball team still unbeaten

NZPA Singapore The New Zealand netball team is virtually assured of a place in the final round of the world tournament in Singapore after a crushing 76-12 win over Canada on Tuesday night. After wins over Hong Kong and Jamaica this week New Zealand is the only team in its group to have scored maximum points from the first three matches. New Zealand faces Northern Ireland, England and Sri Lanka in the remaining Group A matches and is unlikely to be troubled enough to lose its place in the next round. Tuesday’s match was a clean and open affair, and although Canada battled to the end the result never looked in doubt. Major changes to the New Zealand line-up gave Rhonda Meads, Rita Fatialofa and Lynn Proudlove their first games of the tournament. It took some

to settle and mid-court looked disorganised for much of the game. Tracey Fear and Yvonne Willering had a better day on defence although the Canadian attack did not penetrate the circle to their best advantage. However, New Zealand’s goal shooting lacked accuracy and will need to improve if the team is to do well in £he final round. Quarter scores were 17-3, 36-5, 56-10.

England yesterday beat Jamaica, 48-42, after leading all the way, and looks the most likely side to go through to the next round with New Zealand. The two teams meet next Monday and New Zealand will find England a difficult team to play. England’s blocking and guarding of space behind the attacker will frustrate the slick through-court moves which New Zealand has been noted for in the last few years.