Where and When: Sunday, 4 July, John Cain Arena.
Where to watch: Telstra TV and Netball Live Official App
Last time they met: It was round three, Sunday 16 May at Ken Rosewall Area when the GIANTS and the Queensland Firebirds last met. It was the GIANTS’ second game and second win at their new home, as they were triumphant over the Firebirds by seven goals. After the first 15-minutes the two teams couldn’t be split, scoring 14-goals apiece. However, it was the second and third quarters where the GIANTS showed their dominance holding a 12-goal lead into the final quarter. Jo Harten was strong for the GIANTS with her leadership and dominance having a ripple-on effect through her teammates down the court.
What it means for the GIANTS: After two disappointing games, the GIANTS bounced back to the winners list with a comprehensive win over the Adelaide Thunderbirds two weeks ago in round eight. Combined with their four straight wins to start the 2021 season, the GIANTS return from the bye week with five wins, three losses to sit second on the ladder. A win in round nine would help them retain their lead on the ladder heading into a big back end of the season.
Where’s the opposition at: The Firebirds could be described as having an underwhelming start to the season after being flagged as hot favourites heading into season 2021. After eight matches, they’ve recorded two wins – one against the Thunderbirds and the other against the top of the table and their cross-town rivals, Sunshine Coast Lightning. They’ll need an all but perfect second half of the season to push for a top four finish.
The number: 5 – the average margin between the two teams since the inception of Suncorp Super Netball is five goals. The GIANTS lead the head-to-head history with six wins, two losses and one draw.
Key Match Up: April Brandley v Gretel Bueta. The former Diamonds teammates, now new Mums will most likely match up against each other Sunday. Both players have returned from their respective pregnancy breaks not missing beat with both of their names thrown up for discussion in regard to Australian Diamonds selection for next year’s Commonwealth Games. April Brandley played what was probably her best game of the season in round eight, earning her first player of the match in the GIANTS dress with eight gains, four intercepts, two rebounds and 93.5 Nissan Net Points. Playing predominately in goal attack and sharing the position with her 2020 replacement Tippah Dwan, Beuta is leading centre pass receives for her side and has scored 137 goals plus 17 Super Shots.
