Defender Katrina Rore says the Silver Ferns know what the team must improve, after Australia levelled the Constellation Cup series, winning the second test in Auckland.
After losing the series opener by one goal in Christchurch on Sunday, the Diamonds turned the tables 48-42 win in Auckland on Wednesday night.
The result was the perfect way for Australia to celebrate coach Lisa Alexander's 100th test in charge of the national side.
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The remaining two games are in Sydney and Perth respectively, and the Ferns will need to win at least one of the two remaining games, if they are to win the Constellation Cup trophy for the second time and the first since 2012.
If the series finishes tied, goal difference across the four matches would be the decider.
"They did come out hungrier, compared to the first game," said Rore, from Auckland Airport. "They had lots to prove and the game stepped up a lot, compared to Sunday.
"We knew they were going to come out firing and now we must step up in the next game.
"It is always tough to win in Australia, but that's what we need to do. We know what we need to work on and where we can improve.
"This rivalry is building towards something special in this Constellation Cup."
The Ferns were aiming for their third straight win over the Diamonds since 2006, after back-to-back games in the Netball World Cup final and the opening Constellation Cup test.
Even though they lost, Rore insists the belief in the squad remains high and that comes down to the hard work Noeline Taurua has done since taking over.
"We've proven we can win back-to-back games, which is something we hadn't done in a long time.
"In games, we don't get our heads down and we know we can fight back when we need to… and we weren't able to do it last night, but at least the belief is there.
"We know we can build confidence and carry on in this Constellation Cup."
During the national anthem, shooter Maria Folau broke down in tears, adding to speciation that this was her last test in New Zealand, before retiring.
Coach Taurua's future is also up in the air, as her contract expires after the Northern Quad Series in England.
Rore has no idea what their futures are, adding that they probably don't know either.
"Who knows what they're up too. They like to keep their cards close to their chest.
"I don't think they know what they're doing. You know what Noeline has done over the last 18 months.
"Words can't describe what's she's done for Netball New Zealand."
Join us for live updates of Silver Ferns v Australia from 3pm Sunday.
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