The Silver Ferns had set the stage for the final showdown by winning test four 62-57 earlier in the night, forcing the first-ever 14-minute series decider.
Despite the Diamonds winning the first two tests in Australia, the Silver Ferns fought back to claim victory in the latter two tests on home soil.
The series decider, played in two seven-minute halves, saw the Silver Ferns take an early 3-0 lead. However, the Diamonds quickly leveled the score and went on to lead 7-5 at halftime.
Both teams displayed grit and determination, with the Silver Ferns making strategic substitutions due to midcourters cramping up. The Diamonds managed to pull ahead with a four-goal lead, but the Silver Ferns fought back, tying the score at 11-11.
In a tense final few moments, the Diamonds managed to secure a one-goal victory, winning the Constellation Cup.
The match ended on a somber note with a serious injury to Diamonds defender Sunday Aryang.
In the earlier test, the Silver Ferns staged a remarkable comeback in the second half to secure a 62-57 victory. Trailing behind in the first half, the Silver Ferns showed resilience and determination to level the score and eventually take the lead.
The Diamonds’ shooters, Sophie Garbin and Kiera Austin, initially dominated the game but were met with strong defensive play from the Silver Ferns in the second half. With strategic substitutions and a renewed sense of urgency, the Silver Ferns were able to turn the game around and clinch the victory.
Overall, it was a thrilling night of netball that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.
