Where and when: USC Stadium, Sunday August 23, 1:00pm AEST
Last time they met: The GIANTS and the Melbourne Vixens last met 14-months ago in round nine of the 2019 season. It was 14 goals the difference in favour of the Vixens leading into the fourth quarter. The GIANTS took just the one bonus point for the match, after they outscored the Vixens 19-14 in the final quarter to reduce the final margin down to nine goals. The GIANTS goalers were in form this match, with a team shooting average of 90%.
TV and online: Channel 9, Netball Live App + Telstra TV
What it means for the GIANTS: After a 1W-1D-3L start to the season, the GIANTS desperately need to get some wins on the board to remain in contention for a finals appearance. After a heartbreaking loss against top-four side the Lightning on Wednesday night, the GIANTS will be more determined than ever to hit the winners list this round. The GIANTS have been praised for the team morale, spirit and never-give-up attitude, so let’s hope they continue that into this match.
Where’s the opposition at? The Vixens currently sit on top of the ladder with four wins and one loss. There one and only loss so far the season was to the Adelaide Thunderbirds, who also defeated the GIANTS back in round two. The Vixens come off a nine-goal win over the West Coast Fever on Tuesday night, with the side shooting at 96% for the match.
In the spotlight: Given the events of the GIANTS’ round five match against the Lightning, no doubt they’ll be eyes on defender Kristiana Manu’a. The GIANTS starting goal defence will likely match up on the Vixens’ Tegan Philip who was player of the match for the Melbourne side last round. Vixens goal keeper, Emily Mannix, has also been in some top form, meaning the GIANTS’ goalers will need to be playing some of their best to make sure they retain ball in their goal third. GIANTS Netball will also highlight their match up of the round later today across their social media channels.
Interesting Stat: The GIANTS have not beaten the Melbourne Vixens since round 12 of 2018.
