Storm coach Mark Smithells acknowledged his side was outclassed and had turned in a below-par performance.
"We didn't play as well as we did in the last two games . . . but they are a fantastic team," Smithells said.
"They were too experienced and too skilled. But there are 11 new faces in this side, and they are a very young side."
The game was affected by a downpour, and the Southern side struggled in the conditions.
"When the rain came down we were basically awash. You've got to have certain tactics in that weather.
Basics are the story of the day and their basics were just better.
"They held possession for a long period and camped up our end and pinned us down."
The score could have been worse had it not been for some outstanding saves from 18-year-old goalie Liz Gifford, Smithells said.
So far, the Storm has conceded 27 goals while popping in just one in five games.
The worst of its defeat came against Midlands when the Storm was annihilated 10-0.
But despite its poor defensive record, the biggest challenge facing his side was turning opportunities into goals, Smithells said.
The side is capable of getting into position to score but lacks the strike power to convert, he said.
The Storm plays Auckland today, a side Smithells believes is beatable.
"They've got four or five Black Sticks, but they are playing like individuals. They've got stars but don't look that good a team."
The Southern Men played Wellington last night, losing 0-5.
