POSTED BY: Eurobasket News
New Zealand - Australia 46:87
New Zealand lost the second consecutive game against Austrlia at the Oceania series in Dunedin. The Opals remained unsurpassable challange for Tall Ferns as they both now heading for Beijing Olympics in 2008. It was yet another argument that Aussies are still dominant at the region's scene.
The Opals started the game quickly and scored in double figures before the hosts managed to open their scoring stats. Australia easily secured a 22:13 lead after the first frame and did not give it up further on. The gap grew to a 22:37 mark at halftime and New Zealand looked hapless. Micaela Cocks (173-G-86), Toni Edmondson and Lisa Pardon (173-G-82, college: Oregon St.) scored consecutive points midway through the third stanza as Kiwis came as close as 12 points. But it was just a momentum as Australia reacted immediately and cleared off to a 20-point distance moments later. They capped the game with another nearly perfect 22:6 quarter and celebrated well-deserved title.
Natalie Porter (185-F-80) topscored for Australia with 14 points. Renae Camino (177-G-86) ensured 12 points for the winners. New Zealand were paced by 10 points from Angela Marino (166-G-86). Lisa Pardon provided 8 points in a losing clause.
Tall Ferns shot just 26% of field goals and 46% of free throws. The Opals replied with 53% from the field and 62% from free throw line. Australia had an obvious advantage under the rims as they outrebounded the home side 56:32.
New Zealand: Angela Marino 10, Lisa Pardon 8, Jessica McCormack (194-C-89) 6+7 boards
Australia: Natalie Porter 14, Renae Camino 12, Carly Wilson (180-G-82, agency: LBM Management) 11
