Despite a much improved showing in last Wednesday's second Constellation Cup clash in Melbourne, the result was more of the same - a comfortable victory to Australia.
The Silver Ferns took a lot heart from the fact they were able to challenge the Diamonds for long stretches, and even hadthem rattled early in the fourth quarter when the New Zealand side closed to within two goals.
Those positives were tempered by the disappointment that after getting to the point where they had a genuine chance to win the match, the Ferns quickly crumbled with a couple of crucial errors handing the momentum back Australia's way.
It left both sides feeling a bit glum about the result and both Waimarama Taumaunu and Lisa Alexander are seeking solid improvement in tonight's third test Sydney, making for a rather interesting clash.
Here's what to look out for in game three tonight:
Ameliaranne Wells After an impressive debut in Melbourne, can the rookie shooter back up with another strong showing in Sydney tonight? Wells won't have the advantage of the surprise factor she had in the second test, with the Australian defenders having now had the opportunity to have a close look at the tape and dissect Wells' combination with Cathrine Latu.
The Australian fightback Despite notching up a comfortable nine-goal victory in the end, the Diamonds were extremely disappointed with their performance in Melbourne as they lacked the polish and consistency they showed in their 17-goal opening test win. Having challenged the Australians in patches of the game, the Ferns regained their belief in test two, the Australians will be looking to shatter that belief once again by hitting back hard in Sydney tonight.
Ch-Ch-Changes While winning well will be the Diamonds' key focus, given they already have the series wrapped up coach Lisa Alexander may be tempted to see what a few of her benchies can do with a bit more game time against the Ferns. Expect nippy goal attack Tegan Caldwell to get a bit more of a run tonight, while defender Sharni Layton could also be a chance.
Captain Fantastic Tonight star defender Casey Kopua will notch up a significant milestone, becoming the most-capped Silver Ferns skipper. Kopua will lead the team for the 63rd time, breaking Lyn Gunson's long-standing record. The next highest tally is Adine Wilson back on 34. The gritty defender had a strong outing in Melbourne and will no doubt look to lead from the front once again tonight.
