Diamonds coach to seek umpiring clarity after Christchurch defeat
Australia conceded 84 penalties to New Zealand’s 53 in a 62-50 loss in the second Constellation Cup match.
Diamonds coach Stacey Marinkovich plans to ask World Netball for clarification on umpiring after Australia lost 62-50 to New Zealand in Christchurch, questioning differences in how matches are officiated in the two countries.
Australia recorded 84 penalties, compared with 53 for New Zealand, in the second Constellation Cup match. Marinkovich said she did not believe poor discipline across the entire defensive unit explained the count, noting she had rotated players through all defensive positions.
Marinkovich said Australia needed to understand what adjustments were required. She also questioned why the team’s penalty experience appeared to change between New Zealand and Australia when its approach remained similar.
Captain Liz Watson, playing centre, was penalised for intentional obstruction in the opening quarter while trying to contain Maddy Gordon. A third-quarter warning for entering New Zealand’s circle was followed by her replacement with Kate Moloney.
Australia’s defensive options were reduced by Jo Weston being rested and Sunday Aryang remaining out after tearing her anterior cruciate ligament in last year’s competition. Jessie Grenvold started ahead of Courtney Bruce, although Marinkovich said an ankle injury at camp had disrupted Grenvold’s preparation.
The series moves to Sydney with Australia seeking to retain the trophy. New Zealand could also take the world No.1 ranking from the Diamonds if it completes a series sweep.
