Steel outclass Fever to remain unbeaten

Apr 30, 2016 - 5:54 AM Southern Steel goalshooter Jhaniele Fowler-Reid scored an incredible 58 goals as her side maintained their unbeaten record in the trans-Tasman netball league with a 69-62 defeat of the West Coast Fever on Saturday.

The surprise early leaders in the New Zealand conference, the Steel showed it was no fluke as they outclassed a quality Fever side to retain their unbeaten record.

The visitors had few answers to a fluent Steel offence, which provided a steady stream of ball to Fowler-Reid.

The Jamaican international shot most of her goals from close to the hoop, exemplifying the service she received from midcourters Gina Crampton and Shannon Francois.

Wing attack Crampton was a particular standout, producing the movement and slick passing that has become a trademark of the Steel this year under coach Noeline Taurua.

The win was the first by a Kiwi team over an Australian outfit this season, with the previous five such clashes having finished in lop-sided fashion the other way.

The Steel improve their record to four wins and one draw while the Fever slump to their second successive loss after starting the campaign with three wins.

They will remain third in the Australian conference but risk losing touch with unbeaten leaders the NSW Swifts and Queensland Firebirds.

The second quarter was decisive, won 20-11 by the Steel.

The Fever embarked on a run of seven goals either side of the final break but they never threatened to overhaul the Steel.

Source: AAP