The Silver Ferns put on a dominant display over South Africa in the Netball Quad Series however a far greater challenge awaits.
The Silver Ferns may have decisively snapped their four-game losing streak but head coach Noeline Taurua has urged her side not to get ahead of themselves.
"There were some beautiful signs out there but we've got to be realistic," Taurua told Radio Sport.
"We aren't going to build Rome in a day and can't get too carried away with ourselves."
The Ferns dominated South Africa's Proteas 61-37 last night at Tauranga's Baypark Arena with a vastly improved performance just three days after suffering a historic loss to England in Auckland.
With world-class shooting statistics and a defence unit that played with confidence, Taurua was pleased with the Ferns' performance as she claimed her first win as head coach of the national side.
However, Taurua was realistic about her approach ahead of Sunday's final Quad Series game when the Ferns play the Australian Diamonds and warned that it would be a truer test of the Kiwi side's skill.
Maria Folau was in sublime form against South Africa. Photo / Photosport
"Massive step up against South Africa, but it's only one game. We've spoken about consistency ... and for that to happen you've got to consistently perform," Taurua said.
"No disrespect to South Africa at all, or Norma [Plummer], but once we get to England and Australia, all the class acts and they are beasts in their own rights, we'll know how good or how far we are from the opposition.
"There's no reason why we can't win but it will be up to how much discipline we have and whether we're prepared to feel uncomfortable out there when they put the pressure on us."
Maria Folau, who received criticism for not taking more responsibility after a poor shooting performance on Saturday, was back in action last night and played a key role in the Ferns' impressive score margin.
Netting 35 goals at 95 per cent accuracy, the seasoned veteran was clearly out to make a statement and Taurua will be hoping that her star shooter can continue that momentum.
"She played brilliantly, I've never seen her turn to the post as much as she did ... shooting was amazing and I've never seen her shoot to that high percentage for a very long time," Taurua said.
"She knew that after the first game it wasn't what was required or what she expected of herself ... these top players always come out firing the next game so fantastic game for her individually.
"If we can put some of those things that we put out against South Africa in regards to the connections and in regards to our shooting percentage ... I'll be absolutely rapt."
The Ferns will depart to Melbourne this afternoon ahead of Sunday's clash at Hisense Arena.
