Aotearoa Men have given their female counterparts the workout they sought, as they prepare for the Birmingham Commonwealth Games, overwhelming the Silver Ferns 67-48 in their Quad Series final.
The result marked the second time in two days that the men have overcome the Ferns, who had beaten them the previous two years, albeit under COVID-19 restrictions.
The Ferns capitalised on an early error for a 2-1 lead, but conceded the next six goals to lose their grip on the contest, unable to match the athleticism, height and sheer speed of their rivals through the next three quarters.
Ahead 18-10 after the opening quarter, the men used their pace of play to pile on 22 goals in the second quarter and extended their margin to 23 goals midway through the third period, before substituting out their starters - notably towering shooter Jay Geldard, who goaled 37/38 attempts.
As the male combinations faltered and errors crept into their game, the Ferns rallied to take the final quarter 14-12, small consolation in a comprehensive defeat.
Maia Wilson played most of the match at goal attack, combining with shooter Grace Nweke under goal, and that seems to be the preferred combination for Ferns coach Dame Noeline Taurua.
"This series was set up on purpose for us to really challenge us before we go away," said captain Gina Crampton. "So many game styles that we came across this week and we were challenged every single time.
"There was a lot of pressure on these games, so perfect preparation for us going forward.
"After this series, we're that much closer to being ready to go and we're really excited."
The Silver Ferns open their Commonwealth Games campaign against Northern Ireland on July 30.
Aotearoa Men 67 (Geldard 37/38, Smith 14/20, Jeffries 10/13, C Vercoe 5/7, Wetere 1/2) Silver Ferns 48 (Wilson 22/28, Nweke 20/25, Selby-Rickit 6/9)
