Round 2 Match Report | Vixens vs GIANTS

In star defender Jo Weston’s 150th national league game, the Vixens turned the game around with increased intensity and strong defensive efforts, overcoming an early deficit to secure the win over the GIANTS.

A heroic performance from captain Kate Moloney, supportive play from Hannah Mundy and strategic defensive movement helped seal the victory.

Q1 | Vixens 11–15 GIANTS
It was a slow opening quarter from the Vixens, starting on the back foot and not kicking into gear. As they uncharacteristically lacked intensity right across the court, the GIANTS were able to capitalise and hold a narrow lead. However, the Vixens didn’t lose control with Sophie Garbin accurate to post, and the home side stayed in touch thanks to the defensive pressure of Zara Walters and Kate Eddy across the transverse line.

Q2 | Vixens 31–24 GIANTS
The Vixens lifted their intensity in the second quarter, turning a four-goal deficit into a seven-goal lead at the main break, as the crowd of almost 8500 came alive. Moloney starred with three pickups for the quarter, while Kiera Austin applied pressure through the midcourt. The GIANTS struggled to contain the momentum shift, calling two time outs to regroup.

Q3 | Vixens 45–42 GIANTS
The Vixens maintained composure in a momentum-shifting third quarter. They managed to hold a three-goal lead at the final break despite a late GIANTS surge led by Matisse Letherbarrow’s three super shots. Mundy impressed with 12 feeds into the circle, while Eddy provided steady support with four centre pass receives.

Q4 | Vixens 61–55 GIANTS
In a nail-biting final quarter, the Vixens held their nerve to edge out a narrow win, thanks to smart possession play and relentless one-on-one defensive pressure. Rudi Ellis entered the circle late and Weston moved into wing defence, helping to stifle the GIANTS' attack. Another strategic timeout from the visitors couldn't stop the Vixens’ momentum and control in the dying minutes.

THE NUMBERS
150 – Jo Weston has notched up 150 national league games, a feat she’s proud of as a one club player. And with the form she’s in – could there be another 150 to come?
90 – Captain Kate Moloney finished on 90 Nissan Net Points, the highest of the game. With 14 goal assists, 25 feeds and three deflections, Moloney was a standout.
20 – The Vixens turned around their second-quarter form in last week's loss to the Adelaide Thunderbirds, this week delivering a 20-to-9 scoreline and turning the match on its head.

THE COACH SAYS
Head coach Simone McKinnis was pleased with the side's win, particularly the defensive pressure across the court.

"We adjusted our game really well in the second quarter where there was some really good ball work and movement, and our defensive pressure really lifted.

"(In the first quarter) we were just getting stuck at the line, so we needed variety.

"I know it was towards the end of the game, but Rudi came on and Jo switched out to wing defence - it's just good to be able to have that flexibility.

"I thought Kate [Moloney] was fantastic right from the word go. The desperation, going for intercepts, chasing up balls, talking and the support of everyone around her. She never stops."

NEXT UP
The Vixens have a week off with Round 3 split across the next fortnight. When they return they’ll take on former teammate Mwai Kumwenda in new colours, with West Coast Fever making the trip to John Cain Arena on Sunday 27 April. Tickets are available now via Ticketek.

ALL IN. ALL VIXEN.
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