Firebirds Seeking Ultimate State Bragging Rights

Firebirds will be looking for another victory in their Queensland derby when they travel to the Sunshine Coast on Sunday.

“Knowing we came out strongly against the Lightning in the second round is a massive confidence boost, but they’re such a great team and we can’t underestimate them for a second,” said Firebirds defender Laura Clemesha.

Last time they met:

The Firebirds are full of momentum heading into the weekend – aiming for a third straight win and sitting second on the ladder.

Though Clemesha remains wary having won only two of their five away matches this year.

“Ladder position pretty much means nothing unless we can start winning away from home – we haven’t had such a great run. The Lightning are dangerous at home. We know that from last season, we came up and got absolutely thumped, so we’re definitely not complacent – we’ve had a really great training week and we’re ready for a really great game.”

On maternity leave last season and ruled out with a back injury in Round 2, Sunday’s clash will be the first time veteran Firebirds defender Laura Geitz will play against the Lightning.

“Obviously her out last year with the birth of her beautiful son Barney I missed having her out on court to challenge me so I’m looking forward to it. She’s had an amazing season so far being that rock in defence for the Firebirds, so I’m looking to be tightly marked,” said Lighting goal shooter Caitlin Bassett.

After a drawing with the Giants last week – Sunshine Coast know they must start fast against an in-form Firebirds side.

“We can’t let Firebirds get out in front. They’ve obviously got massive scoring power in their attacking end. We know we’ve got to put four good quarters of netball together if we’re going to win,” said Bassett.

MATCH DETAILS
Sunshine Coast Lightning v Queensland Firebirds
Sunday 1 July
USC Stadium
Live coverage on Nine from 1pm AEST