Australia's spectacular netball demolition of Kiwis a stunning turnaround

Ecstatic: The Diamonds collapse in a heap in their post-game celebrations. Photo: Getty Images

Australias demolition of New Zealand in the Commonwealth Games gold medal match was nothing short of spectacular. History was made when the Diamonds closed out the Silver Ferns by 18 goals, the biggest-ever margin between the two countries in the final of a major event.

It was a stunning turnaround from the 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi, when a heartbreaking double overtime loss to the Silver Ferns relegated Australia to the silver medal for the second games in a row.

This one was personal. Several players rebuilt their games and rebooted their lives to achieve a different outcome four years later. While the Diamonds played the gold medal match seemingly with ice in their veins, their reactions at the final whistle revealed what the win meant to them as individuals and as a team.

Winners are grinners: The Australian team sings the national anthem on the victory podium. Photo: Getty Images

The heartbreak and agony of Delhi four years ago was erased for the players on court following an impressive full-court performance of shut-down defence and precision attack.

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In hindsight it seems obvious that this Diamonds team was building towards something special. The key word that we kept hearing out of the camp in the lead-up to one of the most anticipated events of the games program was relentless.

It was an interesting and revealing choice of slogan. From the start of their preparation for this event in December last year, to their exquisite execution of a flawless final match, the relentless pursuit of perfection has been a trademark of this team.

Battle for possession: New Zealand's Anna Harrison and Diamonds centre Kimberley Ravaillion compete for the ball during the gold medal game at the SECC Precinct during the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. Photo: Getty Images

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Australia's spectacular netball demolition of Kiwis a stunning turnaround