Round 5 Preview

<p><strong>THE MATCH</strong> </p> <p>Sunshine Coast Lightning vs Melbourne Vixens </p> <p>Saturday 16 April, 5pm AEST </p> <p>USC Stadium | Gubbi Gubbi Country</p> <p><strong>HOW TO WATCH</strong> </p> <p>Can’t make it to the game? Tune in live on Foxtel or <a href="https://melbournevixens.com.au/game-day/how-to-watch" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kayo Sports</a> (Australia), <a href="https://www.sparksport.co.nz/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Spark Sport</a> (New Zealand) or <a href="https://netballaustralia.tv/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NetballAustralia.TV</a> (everywhere else). </p> <p><strong>LAST TIME THEY MET</strong> </p> <p>Round 9, 2021 </p> <p>Lightning (52) defeated by Vixens (55) at John Cain Arena </p> <p><strong>WHAT TO EXPECT</strong> </p> <p>Gearing up for our third game in seven days, we will look to make it five straight wins in season 2022 to cement ourselves on top of the ladder.</p> <p>Expect a fiery match-up in our defensive end as a couple of Diamonds teammates go head-to-head, with Jo Weston and Steph Wood set to fly the flag for their respective sides. Cara Koenen is another goaler to keep an eye on alongside youngster Reilley Batcheldor for the Lightning. But with Emily Mannix and Olivia Lewis up our sleeve expect plenty of defensive pressure and deflections. </p> <p>The combination of Mwai Kumwenda and Kiera Austin has only grown over the past two games with the pair bringing plenty of excitement in the goal circle. </p> <p>Head coach Simone McKinnis has proven that she is not afraid to ring in the changes with super shot sensation Rahni Samason another strong option under the post. Expect the Lightning to look at their defensive options with Tara Hinchliffe, Kate Shimmin and former Vixen Kadie-Ann Dehaney all known for their aerial ability. </p> <p>Kate Moloney and Liz Watson have also been at their damaging best with Watson coming off another MVP performance last round, and eager to maintain that momentum heading into the clash against Lightning. </p> <p><strong>ONE TO WATCH</strong> </p> <p>A couple of fresh faces in the midcourt will make for an interesting challenge with Annie Miller set to complement stalwarts Mahalia Cassidy and Laura Scherian. Expect Kate Eddy, Watson and Moloney to adapt quickly to the new look midcourt and shut down their speed with their dogged defensive pressure. </p>