I think the Ferns six-week build-up has completely overcooked them. For all the talk about ‘structures and processes’ there seems to be little room for playing on instinct or with flair.
Everyone looks really serious, almost angsty. And I get it, it’s high stakes stuff but the faces look heavy. And I’ve felt that since the start of the tournament, even before Nweke’s injury and the results of the past three games.
I hope Inside Netball does a NWC wrap. Will be interested to hear the thoughts of Anna Stanley, Jenny Woods and Courtney Tairi from on the ground. They’re always very candid…
@Maryann I agree with the players listed re retirements. I do wonder if a black dress has/will be dangled in front of Rahni Samason to replace Ekenasio?? I know Samason has previously said her allegiances lie with the Diamonds but you have to think she would reconsider.
My other thought re personnel changes is if there’s also a rethink of midcourt playing style so Gordon, MRB, Poi, Souness, Toeava, etc run C/WA and Heffernan is put back to WD and Burger to GD alongside Jury.
Lastly, I expect Taurua to stick around. IMO after her NWC 2019 heroics NNZ will let her decide her future versus them giving her marching orders and I don’t think she’d want to leave like this.
