2023 Constellation Cup (Oct)

Short pass rule changed a few years ago to just being able to get a hand between it but I believe it’s changing next year to 3 feet?

Thanks sarahk90. Good quarter by the Diamonds. I wouldn’t mind seeing JLP have a go at centre and maybe Garbin.

Diamonds excellent in patches, more inconsistent in others. When Austin and Koenen are in sync they’re amazing to watch. I thought Aryang was really good again, and I love when Marinkovich pulls the change with Klau. She’s such a great impact player at Diamonds level. Watson and Hadley very solid as always. Dwyer had a bit of trouble when she came on but showed some good things as well.

Ekenasio looks exhausted. Metuarau did pretty well and I’d be looking at giving her some more opportunities. She doesn’t necessarily set the world on fire but she’s the second best GA right now so needs time invested in her. The team really lifts when Nweke comes on, but I don’t think she was actually much stronger than Walmsley today.

NZL’s defence is a real cause for concern. They just don’t build enough pressure or get enough ball. Don’t really know what the answer is going forward but it’s been a while since they had a genuinely dominant defensive game against a top team.

I am surprised not to see any changes in the midcourt for the Ferns. MRB and Gordon too many times running on top of each other. I do feel MRB clogs up the midcourt, and she comes up way too high. I thought they may have tried shifting Heffernan into C, her height could have come in handy in their attack.

I thought Metaurua came on well. As @al_ex said she didn’t set the world on fire, but she was able to be an option to the ball. She has a better entry into the circle (timing) than Ekenasio, and I’m going to say slightly better play making skills. Ekenasio was doing a lot bourking on her shot, even when she was under the post. Her strength is her shooting from range, but failed to live up to it today.

Watson has to start in the next test, surely! I would like to see Watson Karaka Burger and Heffernan (GK-C). If they need to make changes, move Burger and Heffernan up and take off Karaka.

A lot of people commenting on the physicality of Bruce, however if the umpire doesn’t see it, then fair play. It’s not like there is favouritism being an Australian umpire.