GIANTS Netball accept the the findings of the investigation surrounding the conclusion of the Round 7 Suncorp Super Netball match against the West Coast Fever.
An investigation was launched after league management received a report from the official bench manager stating there was an issue regarding the timing of the ‘end of match’ whistle by the umpire.
The match finished with scores tied on 62 goals each, with GIANTS goal shooter Caitlin Bassett missing out on scoring a final goal. The shot had left her hand but had not passed the ring when the umpire blew time. A goal is only counted if it has passed through the ring as the whistle is blown.
The league conducted a full review of the matter and found the bench official did not activate the official siren, however both umpires believed they heard the official siren and subsequently one umpire blew their whistle to signal the end of play.
The Suncorp Super Netball Competition Rules follow the International Netball Federation rules, stating the umpires whistle signifies the start and end of each quarter/half, and the umpire’s decision is final.
After a considered deliberation, including submissions from both clubs, Suncorp Super Netball league has concluded the result of the match will stand, with no change to the final score Fever 62 draw with GIANTS 62.
Suncorp Super League management have commenced a review of the official match timing process and will implement a number of improvements when the competition returns from the Netball World Cup break. These changes will be focussed on mitigating the likelihood of a similar incident occurring and to improve match operations so as to better support the league’s match officials, including umpires and bench officials.
GIANTS Netball Coach Julie Fitzgerald said the club now considers the matter closed.
“While we are disappointed with what occurred in Perth, we have no intention of challenging the findings of the investigation and accept the decision handed down today.
“I’m sure all fans of our sport agree that we need to improve this area of our game in this professional era and hopefully the review of the official match timing process will ensure a similar incident doesn’t occur again.”
The GIANTS next Suncorp Super Netball match is against the Magpies in Melbourne on July 28 following the World Cup break.
