"There was a lot of pressure from the South Africans and there were a couple of calls and we weren't sure which way it was going to go, so they [Silver Ferns] kept their head which is great," Southby said.
The Silver Ferns secured a win against the SPAR Proteas. Photo / Getty
Southby told Radio Sport the Ferns had made "good progress" following a disappointing start to the season, ensuring there was no last-quarter meltdown as seen in their opening loss to England.
"We'd let ourselves down on Sunday in London against England, felt that we'd made some good progress around the ability to keep working and keep calm under pressure and make good decisions," she said.
"I think we can take heart from the fact that we've actually got better so far as the tour has gone on."
Southby said although the Ferns showed a "significant shift" in their performance on court, there would still be work to do in the two days before facing the undefeated Australian Diamonds.
Shooting trio Maria Folau, Bailey Mes and Te Paea Selby-Rickit produced a low 74 per cent shooting percentage, but Southby said she was confident the girls would bounce back.
"I know that they won't be happy with that and they'll go back to the post tomorrow, but I back them to get themselves out of it," she said.
"Still lots to work on from that point of view."
The Ferns will face Australia on Sunday night at 11pm.
