The Melbourne Vixens’ 2019 season has come to an end after going down to the NSW Swifts in Suncorp Super Netball’s preliminary final in Sydney.
Coming off a massive win over the Magpies last week, the Vixens were determined to use the same intensity to take them through to the grand final, but the Swifts had other plans.
From the first whistle, the Swifts took control of the game, taking an eleven-goal lead at the main break.
Changes were made early at both ends of the court for the Vixens, but it wasn’t until an exciting third quarter that we saw a settled, recognisable Vixens.
Unfortunately, it wasn’t enough, and the Swifts took away the game.
Midcourter, Liz Watson reflected on the game, saying the Swifts’ control was too much for the Vixens.
“We’ve seen throughout the year that teams with good starts generally take out the win and we proved that theory last week, but the Swifts had us on that today,” said Watson.
“This week, we had the intent, but it was basic skill errors that let us down.
“In a final, you want to be playing all four quarters and that’s probably something we’ve struggled with at the back end of the season and what got us in the end.”
The Vixens and the netball world farewelled champion, Renae Ingles as she retires from domestic netball.
Goaler Mwai Kumwenda praised Renae and congratulated her on her career.
“Renae has been one of the best netballers in the world but also at the Vixens has helped us be a family,” said Kumwenda.
“As one of the of the most experienced players at the Vixens, she plays for the team and encourages us to not give up.
“She is just the best and we will miss her.”
The Melbourne Vixens will celebrate that 2019 season at the Sharelle McMahon Medal on Thursday, 26 September. Tickets are available to purchase here.
