Netball: Adine's absence lifts Aussies to victory

By DIANNA MALCOLM in Melbourne

Australia was relieved Adine Wilson did not start for the New Zealand netball team in last night's series decider at Melbourne.

"We knew that we would be in with a chance if they (New Zealand) started with Amigene Metcalfe," said a delighted Australian coach Norma Plummer.


"I had watched Amigene on video, we knew where she passed the ball from and we thought she'd be a pretty nervous player.

"Wilson adds speed and height to their mid-court."

New Zealand responded at the end of the first 15 minutes, introducing the 25-year-old lawyer, Wilson, at wing attack.

It was a decision that helped New Zealand claw back a five-goal deficit.

Ms Plummer commented that Wilson's speed, confidence and precision made Australia's job harder, but not impossible.

"She was player of the match in Perth and she certainly adds to their mid-court," Ms Plummer said. "But I never felt that we dropped it."

Another player who added to the intensity was Australian captain Liz Ellis.

It was unclear whether Ellis would be able to start until minutes before the game. A Sydney specialist gave her a chance to play.

She didn't tear the ligament but tore old scar tissue and it burst a blood vessel, Ms Plummer said.

"As soon as we heard that there was no structural ligament damage, we knew she was in with a chance.

"Fortunately we were able to get the bruising and the swelling under control. After she got through training today, it was all go."

- THE HERALD ON SUNDAY