Match Preview | SSN Round 10

THE MATCH

Melbourne Vixens vs Adelaide Thunderbirds
Saturday 20 May, 7pm AEST
John Cain Arena | Wurundjeri Country

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HOW TO WATCH

Can’t make it to the game? Tune in live on Foxtel or Kayo Sports Freebies (Australia), Spark Sport (New Zealand) or NetballAustralia.TV (everywhere else).

LAST TIME THEY MET

Round 5, 2023

Thunderbirds (61) defeated Vixens (50) at Netball SA Stadium

WHAT TO EXPECT

The Vixens will want their fans out in full force in Round 10. The home side will be out for revenge after a disappointing loss to the Thunderbirds in Round 5, and they’ll look to co-captains Liz Watson and Kate Moloney to keep steady through the midcourt to withstand the inevitable defensive pressure of the ladder leaders.

The Vixens will need to unsettle their opposition across the transverse line by disrupting their connections from midcourt to the goalers, and keeping Georgie Horjus out of feeding position. Combatting Eleanor Cardwell will take a full team effort, starting from the attack line where Kiera Austin’s best defensive efforts will be required in the centre third to help starve the Thunderbirds of possession.

Latanya Wilson and Matilda Garrett caused all kinds of headaches for the Vixens last time they met, so expect a steady and patient approach from the midcourt with plenty of movement to get the defenders' heads turning and ensure safe passage into the circle. They'll need to hold strong and protect their space to keep the Thunderbirds out of the contest.

It’s also PLAY4BCNA Round, which means fans can help us to raise funds for Breast Cancer Network Australia. You can support BCNA by donating, buying PLAY4BCNA merch or hosting a PLAY4BCNA round at your club.

ONE TO WATCH

MJ Kumwenda will face Shamera Sterling in a mouth-watering match up; she’ll need to play smart, use her footwork to create space and avoid taking the battle into the air where Sterling thrives. She’ll be relying on Watson’s trademark precision feeds and Austin’s quick hands to keep the ball away from the aerial contest.

THE NUMBER

1: The Thunderbirds are humming, registering just one loss so far this season, but they’ll face a Vixens side in strong form off the back of consecutive clutch victories over fellow finals contenders Fever and Lightning.

#VixensUnleashed