Laura Langman loved every minute of her debut test for the Silver Ferns.
The 19-year-old Waikato-Bay of Plenty Magic player was one of New Zealand's stars in its 50-43 win over Australia at the Sydney Superdome last night, playing the wing defence role like an old hand.
She showed speed
and verve. An early long pass to Irene van Dyk was just beyond the goalshoot's grasp, but the veteran applauded the youngster's initiative for giving it a go.
Langman described her experience to reporters after the match with plenty of fantastics and awesomes, causing hilarity when asked whether her opposing wing attack Natalie Avellino had ribbed her during the match.
"Like everyone says, netball is competitive, and it was very competitive out there last night but you just get out there and do it."
Last night? Langman was speaking immediately after the game. "It feels like a lifetime ago," she said with a laugh.
She admitted to a few nerves before the match.
"It was very intense, but awesome to be a part of. I'm really stoked. We prepared well and the support around me was just fantastic.
"I did have a few nerves, but like Bubby (centre Temepara George) said, we knew the game plan and all we had to was execute it."
Wing defence is normally the domain of Lesley Rumball, but the 109-test veteran had to sit this one out. She was seen giving a few words of encouragement to Langman during the warmups, a gesture that was appreciated.
"Lesley is amazing, she has taught me so much, it's awesome to be in the team with her."
Another youngster who did her team proud was Anna Scarlett, who shored up the defence when she came on late in the second quarter.
Her arms whirled dervishly in the faces of the Australian attack and she made plenty of intercepts.
"In that first quarter, my fingers were gripping each other, just wanting to be out there. Give me a chance and I am going to give my all and I did that and I very much enjoyed it."
- NZPA
