With both teams desperate to bounce back from opening-round defeats, the Queensland derby shapes as an early-season litmus test.
The Firebirds showed exciting moments of promise in Round One against the reigning premiers the Melbourne Vixens, but ultimately came up short, while a spirited fourth-quarter surge wasn’t enough for the Lightning as they fell to the West Coast Fever in Perth.
LAST TIME WE MET
The most recent Battle of the Bruce had the Firebirds fall 72-62 to the Lightning at Nissan Arena, despite a fighting display in front of the Purple Family.
The contest had plenty of spice early, with the Firebirds landing Suncorp Super Shots in the opening Power Five to set the tone, but a damaging third quarter proved decisive despite a late Firebirds push in the final term.
TEAM NEWS
The Firebirds have promoted training partner Sasha Flegler after New Zealand international Maddy Gordon suffered a hamstring injury during the week. If she takes the court, the 20-year-old regional Queensland pathways product will become Firebird No.122.
The Lightning have named goal attack Gabby Sinclair after she missed their Round One clash with the Fever due to a calf issue.
KEY MATCHUP – IMOGEN ALLISON v LIZ WATSON
English Rose Allison made a successful comeback from off-season ankle issues against the Vixens, although she could only play the first half due to a managed workload. Expect Allison to get more minutes this weekend however as she is tasked with shutting down Australian Diamonds and Lightning captain Watson.
If Allison can stifle Watson’s link-up with the Lightning’s goal circle it will be a big step towards victory for the Firebirds.
KEY STAT
Both clubs have won five of their nine previous Round Two Suncorp Super Netball fixtures with the Firebirds winning their past two Round Two matches while the Lightning have lost their past two Round Two fixtures.
LAST WORD
“They are enemies as soon as you step out on the court and we treat them like enemies until the game is done ... they're going to bring it so we're not going to stand back and be all friendly. We're going to get into it.” - Firebirds Head Coach KIRI WILLS is happy for her team to keep their friendships with Lightning players off the court during Saturday’s match.
HOW TO WATCH
For fans residing in Australia, you can watch live on Foxtel, Kayo and BINGE.
