VIXENS v FEVER (64 – 52):

The Vixens have solidified their spot in the top four, after downing the West Coast Fever by 12 points.

Following a first half domination, the Vixens cemented their stocks as a real premiership contender.

Simone McKinnis’ girls looked strong in all areas of the court with high pressured defensive play being a key theme heading into the serious end of the season.

In what was their last chance to keep finals hopes alive, the Fever capitulated under their opponent’s pressure, despite several valiant efforts to stay in the game.

Led by goal keeper and MVP Emily Mannix, the Vixens’ classy defensive line up stifled West Coast’s attacking flow, taking it to the next level every time the Fever tried to push forward.

“We knew that we just had to pick up our defensive pressure all over the court,” Mannix said in her post match interview.

“We are really pushing that top stop, for us we just have to keep working on it and keep getting better week in week out.”

At the other end, Teagan Phillip starred in her milestone match, shooting at 91 percent efficiency, as she became the highest ever capped Vixen.

Despite spirited defensive efforts from Fever captain Courtney Bruce, a seven-goal surge in the final term from the Vixens cemented their win.

After an ACL injury sidelined Mwai Kumwenda for over a year, she made a heart-warming return in the fourth quarter, instigating her side’s final push.

“It’s been a really hard long process for MJ but to come back and I think she had a ball and shot a few goals which was good and we’re really proud of her,” Mannix said on her teammate’s comeback.  

The spirited display from the Vixen’s now have them eyeing off a home final, yet they will need to improve their consistency for the full sixty minutes if this is to happen.