The Melbourne Vixens have suffered a shattering loss to the Magpies, paving the way for the ultimate battle in Suncorp Super Netball’s minor semi final next weekend.
For the second time this season, the Vixens weren’t able to get on top of the Magpies who were playing for the final spot in finals, eventually walking away with seven points and an eleven-goal win.
A scrappy start from the Vixens saw them struggle to get within reach for the entirety of the game.
Struggling to find rhythm, the Vixens made their first change in the second quarter, bringing Lizzy Watson into centre with Kate Moloney into wing attack. From then, multiple changes included Kadie-Ann Dehaney and Emily Mannix rotating in goal keeper, Tegan Philip and Caity Thwaites between goal shooter and goal attack, and Mwai Kumwenda coming on as goal shooter in the final quarter.
While the combinations have worked in previous rounds, it wasn’t enough to take control of the game.
Vixens head coach Simone McKinnis was disappointed in the loss acknowledging the Magpies were too strong from the first whistle.
“The Magpies were all over us right from the word go; it’s hard to put a finger on what exactly was lacking,” said McKinnis.
“We seemed a bit hesitant across the court, particularly in the attacking third so maybe it’s the confidence and a bit of belief that’s missing at the moment.
“Defensively, the Magpies did a super, super job. I don’t think we were recognising what they were doing and playing accordingly.”
The Melbourne Vixens will now host the Magpies at the State Netball and Hockey Centre next Sunday after the league was not able to secure Melbourne or Margaret Court Arena for the finals series.
“It’s a shame not to be playing at Melbourne Arena next week to be honest,” said McKinnis.
“But that’s the way it is, and we have to get ourselves ready to go again and make the result different.”
Tickets to the semi final will be available via Ticketek at 10am AEST tomorrow morning for members and Tuesday at 4pm AEST for non-members.
Due to the capacity of 3000 at the State Netball and Hockey Centre and the number of Vixens members exceeding this, we advise all members wishing to attend the game to be ready with their barcodes as soon as the pre-sale opens.
Members have been emailed details on how to purchase tickets.
