Where and when: USC Stadium, Wednesday August 19, 7.30pm AEST
Last time they met: The GIANTS and the Sunshine Coast Lightning last met in round 12 of season 2019 at the QuayCentre in Sydney. Both teams won two quarters each, but it was the third quarter where the damage was done by the Lightning, with the minor premiers taking the win by four goals. Caitlin Bassett was one of the GIANTS’ best in this match, scoring 36/40 at 90% against her former side.
TV and online: Telstra TV + Netball Live App
What it means for the GIANTS: The GIANTS were a part of the season’s first tie, in their round four match against the Queensland Firebirds last Saturday. Rather disappointed not to take the win, the GIANTS will be determined to put out a more consistent performance this round against the Lightning.
Where’s the opposition at? The Sunshine Coast Lightning currently sit second on the ladder with three wins and one loss. Last round the Lightning got their Grand Final revenge, defeating the NSW Swifts by seven goals. Kylee Byrne is at the helm of the Lightning this year, with the same contracted 10 players as last year. The Lightning have also taken advantage of the extended bench in 2020, giving young training partners Ashlee Unie and Binnian Hunt opportunities on court during the opening four rounds. Goaler Steph Wood, who has been managing a knee injury the last few rounds, shot 10/11 Suncorp Super Shots in the opening round – however, since then the team as a whole has only scored a total of 4/14 Super Shots.
In the spotlight: The Lightning’s Cara Koenen has been in top form so far this season and is on track to score her 500th Suncorp Super Netball Goal this round – needing 13 goals to hit the milestone. Sam Poolman, who was one of the GIANTS’ best performers in their round four tie, will likely match up on the 24-year-old. Eyes are also normally on Caitlin Bassett when the GIANTS and the Lightning meet, with the 201-gamer a former Lightning Championship player. GIANTS Netball will also highlight another key match-up later today on their socials.
Interesting Stat: The GIANTS and the Lightning will play in the 200th Suncorp Super Netball Match when they meet in the final match of the round on Wednesday night.
