By Sophie Taylor
A historic clash against Uganda loomed as the Origin Diamonds' final round-robin match of the Netball Nations Cup arrived, with Sarah Klau raring to go in her 50th appearance in the green and gold.
While the Diamonds were challenged in the opening quarter by the She-Cranes, they showed great smarts and composure across the remainder of the match to run away with an 11-goal victory and lock in a place in the Netball Nations Cup final.
A tight start across the court proved just how tough a contest it would be, as the She-Cranes challenged the Diamonds at every turn and showcased just why they have shot up the rankings.
Donnell Wallam returned to the seven and had no issue getting down to business as the Diamonds attack started strong. But while there was little issue in the shooting circle, small errors crept in as the She-Cranes fought hard and kept the scoreline relatively close throughout a challenging opening half.
But while there was little issue in the shooting circle, small errors crept in as the She-Cranes fought hard and kept the scoreline relatively close throughout a challenging opening half.
A big start to the second half saw a raft of changes for the Diamonds. Head coach Stacey Marinkovich proved deadly with her decision-making, switching up the Diamonds attack and, in turn, flying out of the blocks in a huge opening five minutes to the term.
A couple of breaking calls against the Ugandans well and truly put the nail in the coffin, as the Diamonds took back control and didn't let up from there - holding a 12-goal lead at the final change.
Further changes came in a big final quarter of action, but the damage was already well and truly done as the Diamonds ran home with a confident victory.
