Silver Ferns fight off comeback to take series

The Silver Ferns have fought off an incredible Australian comeback to win the second Constellation Cup test and clinch the series.

New Zealand's edged the Australian Diamonds 50-49 in Auckland after surrendering a 12 goal halftime lead.

Australian shooter Caitlin Bassett missed a shot in the dying moments that could have sent the test into extra time.

Silver Ferns goal keeper Katrina Grant says they've been working a lot on performing in the critical moments.

"When it gets close like that we've learnt to stay calm and composed and just do the business."

Grant says it's a relief to get their hands on the silverware.

"That's hugely important for us, we've been wanting to come through and win this Constellation Cup for a few years now obviously and it feels great to do it, especially on home soil."

Australian goal attack Nat Medhurst says their first half performance killed them.

"We've been harping on for ages about our starts and coming out, and when you're down by 12 goals at halftime, you really don't have too much of a hope in hell of winning."

Ferns coach Wai Taumaunu is feeling a little deflated by the second half.

"Probably wasn't the ending we would've liked so great to have the win and great to show the composure to hold on for the win at the end. Would've preferred that it was a little bit less nerve-wracking towards the end."

Australian coach Lisa Alexander says they simply couldn't break the Ferns blanket defence early on, but also had umpiring concerns.

"Outstanding defence in the first quarter, it made it very, very difficult to find any space in that goal third. We also thought there was a little bit of hanging on in that first quarter - there's no doubt about that and I've spoken to the umpires about that."

The result has secured New Zealand's first series win over their great foes in eight years.

The final test is in Christchurch on Sunday, with Taumaunu hopeful of having captain Casey Williams available in some capacity.

Photo: Photosport