In a double lift for the Firebirds, English international Imogen Allison has also been named to return after missing last weekend’s win over the NSW Swifts due to an ankle complaint. The inclusion of Gordon and Allison strengthens the Firebirds’ midcourt significantly as they chase back-to-back home wins following their stirring come-from-behind 11-point victory over the Swifts.
The Melbourne Mavericks arrive in Brisbane looking to respond after a poor start in their home clash with West Coast Fever last weekend proved costly, with the visitors claiming a 59-47 win at John Cain Arena.
LAST TIME WE MET
The last meeting between the sides was a pulsating Pride Match at Nissan Arena, where the Firebirds produced a spirited display before falling 65-54 to the Mavericks. After a slow start, the Firebirds came roaring back in the second quarter, with Abigail Latu-Meafou landing three consecutive Suncorp Super Shots to help Queensland win the term 22-14 and trail by just three at halftime. Mary Cholhok and Lara Dunkley both made strong contributions, but the Mavericks were able to maintain control in the second half to secure the result.
TEAM NEWS
The return of Gordon and Allison is a huge boost for the Firebirds, with 11th player Elsa Sif Sandholt and training partner Sasha Flegler the duo to make way for the international pair. Samoa international Jessie Laga'aia retains her spot in place of injured Macy Gardner after her impressive 60-minute performance on debut against the Swifts.
The Mavericks are taking an unchanged squad to Queensland from last week’s loss to Fever. Charlotte Sexton continues as the replacement for Tara Hinchliffe after the former Firebird defender’s season-ending ACL injury earlier this season. Maddie Hay joins fellow former Giants Jamie-Lee Price and Amy Parmenter in the midcourt, with Mille Jovic sitting the season out while on maternity leave.
KEY MATCHUP – MADDY GORDON v AMY PARMENTER
A midcourt battle straight from the international rivalry between Australia and New Zealand looms large as Silver Ferns star Gordon makes her much-anticipated return from injury against Mavericks captain and Australian Diamond Parmenter.
It will be the battle of Gordon’s speed and vision against Parmenter’s hard-as-nails defence and ball-winning drive. Both players know each other’s games inside out, but if Gordon can quickly establish a connection with the Firebirds goalers and prevent Parmenter from generating turnover ball, it will be a key step towards victory for her side.
KEY STAT
Since the Mavericks joined Suncorp Super Netball in the 2024 season, the Firebirds have failed to win a match against the league’s newest club, with four losses from four matches against this weekend’s opponent.
LAST WORD
“It’s week-by-week. Win the game that’s in front of you and worry about the next challenge. We’re just excited that we’re in a position to challenge.” - Firebirds Head Coach KIRI WILLS is well aware her team will be firmly in the hunt for a top four spot at the halfway point of the season with a win over the Mavericks.
HOW TO GET THERE
All the information regarding game day is available here.
Tickets are on sale now via Ticketek, with seats still available - secure yours here.
FIREBIRDS SQUAD
Ruby Bakewell-Doran (capt)
Lara Dunkley
Mary Cholhok
Te Paea Selby-Rickit
Imogen Allison
Maddy Gordon
Kelly Jackson
Emily Moore
Isabelle Shearer
Jessie Laga'aia
