Netball: Tough play a two-way street

You can predict the headlines - "Brave Australians beaten by brutal Kiwis".

It's a familiar refrain whenever New Zealand beats Australia. It's never about being better, it's always about rough-house tactics.

Every time an Australian crashes to the floor it's replayed from 15 different angles accompanied by tut-tuts from the commentators.

"It was pretty intense, but you just get up and get on with it really," coach Ruth Aitken said to one of the many questions focusing on the physicality of the contest. Irene van Dyk, who had been on the end of some rough justice from Australian goal keep Bianca Chatfield, said the robust nature of the game added to the spectacle.

"It was pretty much the same as all our games. It's always a bit tough out there but it's great. It adds a bit of spice."