Round 14 Preview | Firebirds vs Vixens

THE MATCH

Queensland Firebirds vs Melbourne Vixens
Saturday 13 July, 5pm AEST
Nissan Arena | Turrbal, Jagera and Yugara Country

THE TEAM

Kiera Austin
Kate Eddy
Rudi Ellis
Sophie Garbin
Lily Graham
Emily Mannix (VC)
Kate Moloney (C)
Hannah Mundy
Zara Walters
Jo Weston

HOW TO WATCH

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

LAST TIME THEY MET

Round 4, 2024
Vixens (68) defeated Firebirds (55) at John Cain Arena

WHAT TO EXPECT

Super Netball’s mathematicians will be analysing every result of Round 14, as the Vixens’ best chance of finishing top – earning hosting rights for the major semi final and a vital double chance – is likely to come down to just a few percentage points. To put themselves in best position, the away side must win big against a passionate Firebirds outfit that will be determined to give retiring captain Kim Ravaillion a memorable send-off.

The Firebirds play their best netball when their emotions are ignited at the Nissan Arena fortress, so expect them to throw everything at this Vixens side as we gear up for finals. A full-court effort to play controlled, precise netball will be essential for the Vixens as the Queensland team rattled West Coast Fever with their tenacity and energy just a few weeks ago.

The shooting combination of Donnell Wallam and Tippah Dwan has wrenched their side to victory in moments at the backend of the season, and the Vixens will need to bring 60 minutes of grinding pressure to combat Wallam’s firepower. Dogged, one on one defence could be the key to Jo Weston and Emily Mannix shutting out their attack.

ONE TO WATCH

Your fan-voted MVP Lily Graham had a breakout performance in goals last week, nailing six super shots, and collecting a pickup and a rebound for zero turnovers. If called upon, her injection could provide vital movement, composure and willingness to go to post against a dynamic Firebirds defence.

The energetic Ruby Bakewell-Doran and long-limbed Remi Kamo have built on their connection this year, and are known for disrupting fast-moving feeds – so Graham’s combination with Kiera Austin or Sophie Garbin will need to be steadier than ever should coach McKinnis call on her again.

THE NUMBER

23: Captains Kate Moloney and Kim Ravaillion have seen their sides face off 23 times over their 11 years of national league netball. Both centre court stars debuted in 2013 and have won two premierships with their respective teams, but this Saturday will mark a changing of the guard as Ravaillion retires from the game. Whether the C bib goes to Ravaillion or her incumbents in the red-hot Macy Gardner or Hulita Veve, expect a fierce midcourt battle to set the tone of this final regular season match.

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