The Queensland Firebirds put on an epic display for Tasmanian fans, with the lead changing multiple times in the final quarter but were pipped by the Magpies in the last 3 minutes of the game – 65-68.
The lead changed multiple times throughout the game and every ball was hotly contested as both teams eyed their second win of the season. Down by two in the first quarter, Romelda Aiken held strong in the shooting circle sinking a Suncorp Super Shot to bring the score back to even at half time.
The Firebirds came into the second half scoring the first 8 goals and then the first 4 of the third quarter. The moving circle perplexed the Magpies defenders when Gretel Bueta came into goal shooter pairing with Tippah Dwan. The Magpies feed and Super Shot attempts saw them wrestle the lead from the Firebirds. Tippah drew a penalty right-on three-quarter time and sunk the Suncorp Super Shot to bring the Firebirds back to within 3 points.
The defenders threw everything at the Magpies in the circle with Tara Hinchliffe and Kimberley Jenner chasing every ball. Rudi Ellis made an immediate impact in the last 5 minutes of the third quarter, helping contain Shimona Nelson in goal shooter and rattle the circle feed for the Magpies.
Early in the final quarter, a spectacular defensive turnover from Gabi Simpson and solid drives from Jemma Mi Mi saw the Firebirds get a goal up on the Magpies. The lead changed every 2 minutes, and the Firebirds were even with 2 minutes and 40 seconds to go in the game but couldn’t hold out the Magpies to claim victory.
Kim Ravaillion was a standout as she has been all season – both on her circle feeds and in showcasing her athleticism in a fast-paced game. Could it be 4 in a row for Rav’s Nissan Net Point win this week?
Firebird’s captain, Gabi Simpson said she was proud the team was playing their beautiful brand of netball.
“There were so many periods where we were playing our beautiful brand of netball – the ball was flowing and we were winning ball which was cool to see”, Simpson said.
“It was frustrating that we let them back into the game and couldn’t maintain the blocks of brilliance.”
“This week, we’ll really look within ourselves to see how we’re able to unleash what we’re capable of because we all want to see each other flourish.”
Head Coach Megan Anderson was pleased with the team’s accountability for their individual jobs as well as the intent for the ball and defensive pressure.
“The team were really focused on their individual jobs, showed great intent and pressure in defence.
“Our attack end were composed throughout the game and I thought our player changes worked well with players settling into their roles, Anderson said.”
“It’s a disappointing one to lose because we certainly put ourselves in a position to win and we didn’t take the opportunity.”
Our turn-over conversion rate wasn’t where it needed to be and that cost us in the tight moments, Anderson said.”
The Firebirds’ next match is a home game against the Vixens and will be played at 3pm on Saturday, May 29 at the Queensland home of netball, Nissan Arena.
