By Matt Fotia
Sunshine Coast Lightning coach Belinda Reynolds says there have been a number of positives to come from a lengthy injury lay off for star off-season recruit Courtney Bruce following her sides 66-64 win over the NSW Swifts on Saturday afternoon.
The Lightning coach was more than happy to praise the blossoming defensive partnership of Tara Hinchliffe and Ashleigh Ervin, who have come together well to fill the void left by Bruce’s injury.
Since Round 5, Hinchliffe has averaged 2.8 gains, 2.6 deflections, and 1.8 intercepts per game, while Ervin has become the talk of the town, averaging 7.6 gains, 4.6 deflections, 3.2 rebounds and 2 intercepts during Bruce’s absence.
“They’ve certainly established a great relationship over the past couple of weeks without Courtney being there,” Reynolds said.
“That’s the beauty of this team now. With everyone back we’ve got multiple ball winners.
“Ash can win it, Tara can and also Courtney.”
Bruce played just 17 minutes in a managed return to play following her injury, but still picked up 2 gains and 2 deflections to play a key role in the Lightning’s important win over the Swifts.
Reynolds praised Bruce’s generosity and willingness to aid the development of understudy Ervin, who last week joined Bruce as part of the Diamonds 2024-25 squad.
Ashleigh Ervin has gone to another level in the absence of the injured Courtney Bruce“Courtney’s so giving of her time and just wants Ash to keep growing and building,” Reynolds said.
“It’s fantastic that they’ve both been selected in the Diamonds (squad) so they can continue that relationship there as well.”
The Lightning also welcomed back midcourter Ava Black during their Round 9 encounter with the Swifts, meaning they were able to play their original contracted 10 for the first time in weeks.
The Lightning sit fourth on the Super Netball ladder and host the ladder leading Vixens on Saturday night.
