The Queensland Firebirds took another significant step forward in Round 4 of their 2020 Suncorp Super Netball campaign, splitting the points with GIANTS Netball in a fast finishing draw at Nissan Arena.
The home side fought back from a 3-goal deficit at the final break, with an inspiring 17-14 goal fourth quarter securing their first competition point of the season.
Head Coach Roselee Jencke OAM praised her side for the momentum they are building.
“All we are asking of this group is that they continue to improve and it’s really pleasing to see the performances build game on game,” Jencke said.
“We continue to reinforce as a group the importance of focusing on what we do well and staying true to our brand of netball, which has been the key to our form in these past two games.”
Kim Jenner added extra sparkle to her already soaring potential, backing up her player of the match performance in Round 3 with another six gains and four intercepts.
The influence of Jenner and her defensive partner Tara Hinchliffe was plain to see, with the pair generating five possession gains between them, overturning a four goal deficit to lead 31-29 at halftime.
Jenner said she and her teammates would gain a lot from the performance despite the draw.
“It’s very disappointing that we couldn’t cement the win but it was great to see all the girls lift the intensity and play through to the final whistle, especially given we’ve slipped away in the last quarter in the first few games,” Jenner said.
“There’s so many positives to take from that result though – our attackers were amazing with their strength and movement in the circle and it was another good opportunity to continue to build our defensive connections.”
Firebird Romelda Aiken almost inspired her team to a maiden win with 49 goals at 89 per cent accuracy.
Jencke said it was a vintage display from her experienced shooter.
“Romelda really stood up tonight – it was like winding back the clock for her and it was awesome to watch.”
In a dynamic final term each side threatened to secure the result as Tippah Dwan and GIANTS shooter Kierra Austin exchanged super shots.
Ultimately it was defensive scramble from each side that denied a clear winner.
The Queensland Firebirds now turn their attention to the reigning Premiers, with a Round 5 clash against the NSW Swifts at Nissan Arena on Tuesday night.
