Where and When: Sunday, March 19 at 2:00pm (AEST)/1:00pm (local time) at UniSC Stadium, Sunshine Coast
Where to Watch: Foxtel + Kayo Sports (Australia), Spark Sport (New Zealand) or NetballAustralia.TV (International). Sign up for Kayo today!
Last Time They Met: The Lightning and the GIANTS last met in the final round of the 2022 Suncorp Super Netball season. A dominate first half set up the GIANTS up for a three-goal win, with the win also confirming hosting rights for the GIANTS in the minor semi-final. GIANTS captain Jo Harten stood tall for her side shooting 45 goals at 92%. Meanwhile, at the other end, the defensive trio of Tilly McDonell, April Brandley and Amy Parmenter produced 14 gains, giving their side the chance to take the victory.
What it Means for the GIANTS: Every team is out to secure a win in the opening game of the season and breath that sigh of relief that comes with the first points on the board. For the GIANTS, who come off a heartbreaking end to season 2022, a win in the first round will be the best response in a bid to making this year’s grand final and securing their first championship.
Where’s the Opposition At: After a disappointing 2022, finishing bottom of the ladder and missing finals for the first time, the Lightning made some strong additions to their side during the off-season. South African defender Karla Pretorius returned from maternity leave, while young local talents Charlie Bell and Ashleigh Ervin have earnt full time contracts. The Sunshine Coast based side impressed during pre-season, but have been dealt a blow on the eve of the season, losing Diamonds defender Tara Hinchcliffe to an ACL injury.
The Name: Jo Harten – the GIANTS captain and barometer of not only the shooting circle but the GIANTS’ team will miss the round one clash as she recovers from a knee surgery in January. This will be the first game the 33-year-old has missed in her seven seasons with the GIANTS. Harten returned to full training this week and is expected to play next weekend in round two.
The Number: 25 – Sunday’s game will mark the start of the 25th National League season for head coach Julie Fitzgerald. Having coached in both Australia and New Zealand, Fitzgerald has coached more than 350 matches and is a five-time premiership coach from her time at the Sydney and NSW Swifts.
