The Australian Volleyroos Women’s side have taken a 2-0 lead over the Volley Ferns after the second match of the Trans-Tasman series in Auckland on Tuesday night.
After the tight Game 1 loss to Australia on Monday, the Ferns were searching for a quick rebound at Carmel College but the world 61-ranked visitors again showed their quality when they needed it in key moments – claiming a 3-0 victory on the night (25-18, 25-20, 25-19).
After back-and-forth openings to both sets, Maude Rewha’s powerful swing proving a useful weapon for the Volley Ferns, Russell Borgeaud’s Australia team created breathing space midway through each of the first two sets, closing out both frames despite the Kiwis’ best efforts to find a way back.
The third set followed the same pattern, both teams trading points closely to 14-14 before Australia opened up a 21-17 edge and then pressed home that advantage to claim the third set 25-19.
Tasman player Holly Chandler said there were plenty of positives to take out of the defeat which was still their first match at home since 2019.
"At times were just not being able to convert it when we needed it. It feels good out there, we're definitely making progress," said Chandler who teaches Nelson.
The slow start to the match initially hurt the Volley Ferns, but Chandler said it was par for the course.
"You've always got those pre-game nerves but I think we're gelling really well on court on court and off court, we're definitely doing well," she said as they need to win the three remaining matches to take the series.
"We can definitely take it for sure. We just need fine tuning those small things, tidying some things up and get those connections."
Game three of the series is back at Carmel College on Wednesday night, first serve at 7pm. Entry is $3 with under-5s free.
Trans-Tasman Series: Game 2 - Volley Ferns v Volleyroos Women
August 13, 2024
Carmel College, Auckland
New Zealand 0-3 Australia (18-25, 20-25, 19-25)
