LESSONS learnt in victory and defeat will prove beneficial for the Queensland Firebirds after their two-game pre-season trip to Tasmania.
The Firebirds faced Collingwood Magpies in two practice matches at Launceston’s Silverdome, posting a comeback win in Thursday’s game before slipping to a loss in Friday’s match, played behind closed doors.
A remarkable run of five straight Suncorp Super Shots by Magpies’ goaler Sophie Garbin gave Collingwood momentum in the second quarter of Thursday’s game to hold a two-goal lead at halftime.
Despite trailing late in the final term however, a run of six points in the dying minutes including a Mia Stower Suncorp Super Shot secured a 66-65 win for the Firebirds.
“I’m so happy with how we played on Thursday night,” Firebirds Head Coach Bec Bulley said.
“We were just in control of the game and playing well the whole time. We won three out of four quarters.
“Sophie Garbin shot five two-pointers in a row which is pretty amazing and something we’re going to have to address that but it says we’re doing everything right.”
The Magpies made a fast start to Friday’s game, opening up a seven point lead within five minutes and had charged out to a 15-point advantage at halftime.
That deficit proved too much for the Firebirds to rein in, eventually slipping to a 70-56 defeat.
Despite the result, Bulley said the match gave the team aspects to work on ahead of their Suncorp Super Netball season opener against the Adelaide Thunderbirds on March 19.
“You always learn so much more from a loss,” Bulley said.
“Whilst it’s disappointing, it’s kind of a good thing that will push us to be better.
“This trip was a great chance to try different combinations and give everyone the opportunity to play together.”
THE BIRDIES ARE BACK! Tickets are now on sale via Ticketek for the 2023 Suncorp Super Netball season including the visit of Collingwood to Nissan Arena on Saturday, May 6. Don’t miss a minute of the action and secure your seat now.
