Fast 5 Ferns overcome Jamaica in Fast 5 Netball World Series grand final

The Victorious Ferns with the trophy. Photo / Photosport

New Zealand secured their seventh Fast 5 Netball World Series title with a thrilling 34-33 win over the Jamaican Sunshine Girls in the grand final at Melbourne Arena.

After suffering their one and only defeat of the two-day tournament to the experienced Jamaican side during pool-play - losing 33-22 - the Ferns were back in action and determined to finish the year on a high.

With a proud history in the shortened version of the game - having won the title on six occasions since the inception of the tournament in 2009 – the Ferns had plenty to prove after last year's disappointing fourth-place finish.

It was a solid start from both teams in the opening quarter with the Ferns taking a narrow lead before widening the scoreline during their power play quarter – where all points scored are doubled.

Ferns captain Sulu Fitzpatrick led her Kiwi side as her tenacious defensive tactics caused early problems for Jamaican sharpshooter Romelda Aiken.

Working in unison alongside her Central Pulse teammate Karin Burger, with a couple of 'Harrison Hoists' in the mix, Fitzpatrick ensured that the Ferns had plenty of opportunities to score.

Young Ferns shooter Aliyah Dunn proved her worth yet again on the international stage, alongside her experienced counterparts Bailey Mes and Ameliaranne Ekenasio, sinking essential long-range shots from the wider two-point circle zone.

Meanwhile, denying top Jamaican defender Shamera Sterling any opportunity to take a rebound, Mes was back in fine form in the shooting circle after being away from the international fold since the Silver Ferns' Commonwealth Games campaign.

More than 10 points ahead, things looked good for the Kiwi side in the final quarter but a stunning power play six-point shot from Jamaica with less than a minute remaining in the clash suddenly put the pressure back on the Ferns.

With plenty to play for, New Zealand held their nerve to claim victory in style.

Earlier in the evening, defending champions England played for pride with a 35-33 win over South Africa to place fifth, before Australia defeated Malawi 38-15 to claim bronze.