IMAGE|| Mark Brake, Getty Images

The Australian Diamonds have hung on to clinch their fifth straight Constellation Cup, with a 55-43 victory over New Zealand Silver Ferns at Adelaide Arena last night.

A late third term burst saw the Ferns slash the Diamonds 14-goal lead to just three, but six unanswered goals early in the last quarter allowed Australia to successfully vanquish their rival.

Diamonds coach Lisa Alexander made some last quarter modifications which gave debutante Kate Moloney an opportunity to shine in the green and gold, while Captain and goal shooter Caitlin Bassett was replaced by Caitlin Thwaites.

Bassett topped the Diamonds’ scoresheet with 29 goals from 31 attempts.

The series wraps up on Saturday in Sydney.