Lightning will travel down the Bruce Highway this weekend as they face the Queensland Firebirds in hopes of keeping their finals campaign alive, as well as securing the Queensland Cup.
Celebrating NAIDOC Week, the round also marks the second First Nations Round of the season, with teams donning the much-loved First Nations dress design.
Lightning secured the win against the Firebirds in Round 7 but will need to win again to secure the Queensland Cup, otherwise it will come down to for and against percentage.
KEY MATCH UP
Mahalia Cassidy vs Lara Dunkley
Cassidy and Dunkley are two players who will play hard until the final whistle, leaving nothing out on the court.
Dunkley has been building throughout the season in the WA position, her strong drives and feeds into Donnell Wallam creating plenty of opportunities for the Queensland side.
A consistently strong performer and a calm head, Cassidy will come out firing on Saturday and ready for the challenge against her old team.
COACH'S COMMENT
Although coming off a devastating loss last weekend, Belinda Reynolds spoke about the team’s ability to respond with a strong performance.
“We were really disappointed in our last game, and the last time we were disappointed in the outcome we responded well against the Vixens. So it’s about taking those learnings again and attacking this one right from the get go,” she said.
“We know what we’re playing for this week. We’re playing for the Queensland Cup and we’re playing for a spot in the finals.”
LAST TIME THEY MET
Round 7 2024, Lightning (76) – Firebirds (65)
THE TEAM
- Steph Fretwell (C)
- Cara Koenen
- Tara Hinchliffe
- Reilley Batcheldor
- Ashleigh Ervin
- Leesa Mi Mi
- Liz Watson
- Mahalia Cassidy
- Ava Black
- Courtney Bruce
MATCH DETAILS
- Suncorp Super Netball Round 13
- Sunshine Coast Lightning v Queensland Firebirds
- Nissan Arena, Meeanjin
- 7pm AEST, Saturday 7 July 2024
HOW TO WATCH
Catch the match live or on demand on Kayo or Foxtel for viewers within Australia.
For international viewers, watch the game via Netball Pass.
