Netballers begin with big win
The New Zealand netballers scored a comfortable 74-44 win over hosts Scotland in their Commonwealth Games opener.
The New Zealand netballers scored a comfortable 74-44 win over hosts Scotland in their Commonwealth Games opener.
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Though New Zealand were always a class above the gritty Scots, they had to work hard for their win. They led 19-11, 35-24 and 53-37 after the three quarters.
Coach Noeline Taurua took the opportunity to give 11 of her players significant court time.
Key Scottish shoots Emma Barrie and Niamh McCall had a torrid tussle with the New Zealand defenders, especially Kelly Jackson and Carys Stythe, but stuck to their guns well.
For New Zealand, goal attack Georgia Heffernan succeeded with all 11 of her shots and goal shoot Grace Nweke, playing her 50th test, succeeded with 29 of 30 shots.
Taurua later paid tribute to Nweke, calling her 'a legend, not just of New Zealand netball but world netball'. She said it was great to celebrate with her on her big day.