Minor Semi Final Preview | Thunderbirds vs Vixens

THE MATCH
Adelaide Thunderbirds vs Melbourne Vixens
Sunday 20 July, 2pm AEST
Adelaide Entertainment Centre | Kaurna Land

THE TEAM
Kiera Austin (VC)
Maggie Caris
Kate Eddy
Rudi Ellis
Sophie Garbin
Lily Graham
Kate Moloney (C)
Zara Walters
Tara Watson
Jo Weston

HOW TO WATCH
Can’t make it to the game? Tune in live or on demand on Kayo Sports, Foxtel or BINGE (Australia), or via Netball Pass (international).

LAST TIME THEY MET
Round 12, 2025
Thunderbirds (56) defeated Vixens (53) at John Cain Arena

WHAT TO EXPECT
After falling heartbreakingly short in last year’s final, and by three goals just a few weeks ago, the Vixens have unfinished business with the Thunderbirds. After a four-goal win in Round 14 surged the Thunderbirds into the finals, they’ll be looking to make an impact in their campaign for a three-peat.

The Thunderbirds pride themselves on their defensive work, and their lineup will be working overtime to disrupt the visitors’ attacking system. With the likes of Kiera Austin and Sophie Garbin known for their slick attacking connection and timing around the circle, they’ll need to remain cool and calm under the post and take their chances to keep Latanya Wilson and Matilda Garrett away from any feeds and opportunities over the shot.

A monster matchup looms between Kate Moloney and Hannah Petty in the midcourt, both known for their passion, commitment, and ability to step up on the big stage. Whether the two meet in the middle or on the circle edge, Moloney will need to bring her trademark hunt for any loose ball – if the skipper can get her hands on a few pickups and gain some ball for her side, the Vixens will be difficult to stop.

Romelda Aiken-George will be a focus for the Vixens’ defensive end. The last time they met, Rudi Ellis impressed with four deflections. Should they meet again this weekend, she'll need to stay in play and use every inch of her elevation and footwork to get around Aiken-George and contest the high ball.

When it comes to crunch time, this game could be decided by who protects their gained ball best. There are no second chances, and if the Vixens bring what they’re known for – relentless work rate, smothering unit defence and silky ball movement – they’ll hold themselves in good stead to progress another step in their 2025 finals campaign.

THE NUMBER
32 – The last time they met, Zara Walters had a major impact in her first full 60-minute outing of 2025. Banking 32 feeds - the highest of any player on court - as well as 13 goal assists and an intercept, the young gun starred against experienced WD and Thunderbirds captain, Hannah Petty. Walters’ speed and competitive drive will be vital in her side's challenge this weekend as they fight to keep their season alive.

ALL IN. ALL VIXEN.