Silver Ferns open Commonwealth Games with a slow start against Uganda

The Silver Ferns claimed a mediocre victory over Uganda. Photo / Getty

The Silver Ferns have claimed a less than impressive 64-51 victory over Uganda in their opening match of the Commonwealth Games.

The Ferns were slow out of the gates as they opened the match in a sluggish fashion that gave Uganda a brief taste of success.

As Uganda held a 100 percent shooting rate for most of the first quarter, it was the Silver Ferns' goal attack, Maria Folau, who carried the Kiwis to halftime with a more comfortable 10 point lead.

The Ferns managed to stay ahead throughout the two final quarters, however, it wasn't enough to make much of a statement on the court.

Silver Ferns coach Janine Southby wasn't surprised by Uganda's improved performance and said it was New Zealand's hesitancy that let them down.

"It was a tough match, it was a good match. I think Uganda are strong and we expected them to be tough because they've improved in the world rankings and so we knew it wasn't going to be easy," Southby said.

"I thought on attack if we kept the ball moving, our confidence, and kept our movement up it was good. When we got hesitant that's when we lost ball."

"I think the changes in the second half came on really well, the attacking end got the ball moving, turning and shooting confidently."

Ranked second in the world, the Silver Ferns were rightfully expected to thrash Uganda, but tonight's less than comfortable victory could reinforce concerns over the likelihood of a podium finish.

The Ferns will face Wales tomorrow at 3.00pm.

Quarter-by-Quarter Scores
NEW ZEALAND | Q1 - 15, Q2 -17 (32) . Q3 - 17 (49), Q4 - 15 (64)
UGANDA | Q1 - 10, Q2 - 12 (22), Q3 - 15 (37), Q4 - 14 (51)

Shooting Statistics
NEW ZEALAND
Mes: 10/17 @ 59%
Folau: 22/22 @ 100%
Ekenasio: 19/26 @ 73%
Selby-Rickit: 13/14 @ 93%

UGANDA
Proscovia: 37/42 @ 88%
R. Nanyonga: 14/16 @ 88%