Match Preview: Round 12 v Thunderbirds
Where and When: Sunday, May 29 at 4:00pm at Ken Rosewall Arena
Where to Watch: Foxtel + Kayo Freebies (Australia), Spark Sport (New Zealand) or NetballAustralia.TV (international)
Tickets: Join the GIANTS as they celebrate the dedicated First Nations Round this Sunday. Tickets are available from Ticketek and start from $25 adults, $22 concession, $20 juniors or just $49 for a family!
Last Time They Met: The two teams last met back in round two. It was a game that attracted much conversation after the GIANTS had their request to have the match postponed - due to having six players unavailable due to COVID - rejected. The GIANTS played out the match with seven contracted athletes, two uncapped training partners and West Coast Fever Training Partner (and former Adelaide Thunderbird) Chelsea Pitman. The GIANTS came out strong and despite the odds, led at the first break. By half time, the scores were levelled. As the game went on, the new combinations weren’t enough to match it with the Thunderbirds, scoring just 18 goals in the second half to be defeated by 13.
What it Means for the GIANTS: This game means a lot for the GIANTS – they must win to keep their finals chances alive. It’s no secret how close this year’s ladder is, with one round of results able to change the layout to the ladder. The GIANTS come off an interesting result in round 11 – whilst disappointed not to take the four points, 77 goals is not a bad performance. Back at home this weekend, the GIANTS will make the most of a home game and home crowd.
Where’s the Opposition At: The Thunderbirds come off back-to-back wins against the Queensland Firebirds and Collingwood Magpies to skyrocket themselves back up into the top four, sitting one above the GIANTS in third place. The Thunderbirds achieved their round 11 win with key players Lenize Potgieter, Maisie Nankivell and Hannah Petty on the sidelines with illness. The Thunderbirds are in a similar position to the GIANTS, with a win required to keep their chances of a finals appearance alive. If they make finals, it will be their first time in the history of Suncorp Super Netball.
The Name: Shamera Sterling – the Jamaican defender is having an impressive season, leading the league for rebounds (31) and intercepts (39). The GIANTS will need to play smart in their attacking third, to limit the impact Sterling has and to maintain possession and score.
The Number: 52 – is the average score of the Adelaide Thunderbirds this season. Their average score from their five wins this season has been 57.
The News: This weekend the league will celebrate the first of two dedicated First Nations rounds. The GIANTS will wear a specially designed First Nations dress, designed by Gamilaroi Woman Krystal Dallinger (@culture_2_canvas). All teams will also play with a specially designed ball, with the artwork done by @simonethomsonart, Yorta-Yorta/Wurundjeri. Winyar Yuringa (Women of the Sun) 2020. In partnership with Dreamtime Art Creative Consultancy