Sunshine Coast Lightning will take on the West Coast Fever this Sunday in the knock-out Minor Semi Final clash.
Playing in front of a packed out crowd at RAC Arena, Lightning must win this match to progress through to the Preliminary Final – the final hurdle before the Grand Final.
The last time these two sides played each other was Round 8 where Lightning went down by a narrow three goals. With their season on the line, Lightning are hungry to take the win.
KEY MATCH UP
Courtney Bruce vs Jhaniele Fowler-Nembhard
While Bruce has battled injury throughout the season, she’s expected to be all guns blazing heading into this Semi Final match in Perth. Coming up against her former teammate Fowler-Nembhard isn’t going to be easy, but Bruce isn’t one to shy away from a challenge.
Fowler-Nembhard is the most prolific goal shooter in the competition and thrives in high-pressure situations. Bruce will be doing everything she can to create doubt in the home-side’s feeder’s heads, putting pressure on the shooter.
COACH'S COMMENT
Belinda Reynolds said the key to getting on top was to keep Fever from gaining confidence.
“The Fever are at their best when they’re out in front and playing with confidence,” she said.
“We need to be amongst them and putting pressure on them the entire game. And if it comes down to the wire, I think we’ve learned those scenarios across the season.
“Our fans on the Sunshine Coast have been so supportive of us this entire season, and we know we’ll have their support back home, so hopefully we do them proud.”
LAST TIME THEY MET
Round 8 2024, Fever (71) – Lightning (68)
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 Minor Semi Final
- Sunshine Coast Lightning v West Cost Fever
- RAC Arena
- 2pm AEST, Sunday 21 July
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.
