Fever’s Fantastic Victory Leads Them to Swift Preliminary Final

West Coast Fever Secures Spot in Swift Preliminary Final

Moments that Mattered

The West Coast Fever emerged victorious in a thrilling match against the Melbourne Vixens, securing their place in the Preliminary Final of the 2023 Suncorp Super Netball season. With just a two-point lead heading into the final four minutes, Fever displayed a clutch performance, forcing turnovers in the defensive circle and converting them into crucial goals.

One notable highlight of the match was Fever Vice Captain Jess Anstiss marking her 100th game in green. Anstiss’s contribution as a premiership-winning Wing Defence was instrumental in helping Fever transition the ball from defense to offense when it mattered most.

Quarter by Quarter Analysis

In the first quarter, the game started off tightly contested, with neither team willing to give an inch. Vixens capitalized on Fever‘s errors, taking an early lead. However, Fever‘s Sunday Aryang and Courtney Bruce turned the tide with an outstanding effort, bringing their team back into the game. With a remarkable play from Aryang and a Super Shot from Sasha Glasgow, Fever took the lead.

The second quarter saw both teams battling it out on center pass. Vixens made adjustments to their defensive third, bringing on former Fever player Olivia Lewis. Despite Vixens’ initial advantage, Fever quickly bounced back with a well-timed time-out called by coach Dan Ryan. Thanks to a defensive rebound from Captain Courtney Bruce, Fever took a two-goal lead by halftime.

Scores remained close in the third quarter, with Vixens drawing level. However, Fever‘s pressure and Bruce’s rebounding abilities allowed them to regain the lead. In the final five minutes of the quarter, Fever extended their lead thanks to a Super Shot from Glasgow. Although Kiera Austin responded with a two-pointer, Fever held a four-goal lead entering the final quarter.

At the start of the fourth quarter, Fever extended their lead to six goals. However, the resilient Vixens fought back, reducing the margin to just two points during the Power Five period. Fever, led by Bruce’s exceptional rebounding and intercept skills, dominated play in the later stages of the quarter. With Aryang’s crucial intercept sealing the game, the atmosphere at RAC Arena reached a fever pitch.

Looking Ahead: A Place in the Grand Final

With their victory over the Melbourne Vixens, West Coast Fever now sets their sights on the NSW Swifts in the Preliminary Final. The Fever will fly to Sydney to face off against the Swifts at Qudos Bank Arena on Saturday Night. The winner of this highly anticipated match will secure a place in the Grand Final against the Adelaide Thunderbirds.

Stats Analysis

Here are some key statistics from the match:

– Goals: Fowler 55 | Kumwenda 39
– Super Shots: Glasgow 3 | Austin 3
– Goal Assists: Teague-Neeld, Glasgow 20 | Watson 23
– Feeds: Teague-Neeld 32 | Watson 50
– Centre Pass Receives: Teague-Neeld 29 | Watson 31
– Deflections: Bruce 15 | Eddy 3
– Gains: Bruce 7 | Mannix 2
– Intercepts: Aryang 2 | Lewis 1

These statistics highlight the standout performances of Fever‘s Jhaniele Fowler, who dominated the scoring with 55 goals, and Sasha Glasgow, who provided critical support with 20 goal assists. Defensively, Courtney Bruce was a force to be reckoned with, recording 15 deflections, 7 gains, and contributing to Fever‘s defensive prowess.

Overall, the match showcased the determination and skill of both teams, with Fever emerging as the victors. Their impressive performance sets the stage for an exciting clash against the NSW Swifts and the potential opportunity to compete in the Grand Final.