LIGHTNING V THUNDERBIRDS (58 – 37)

The Sunshine Coast Lightning strolled to a convincing win over the Adelaide Thunderbirds, securing their first ever minor premiership.

They now are just one win away from a Grand Final spot – a task which appears very doable following this dominant display.

The 21-point victory has primed the Lightning to send off departing coach Noeline Taurua in spectacular fashion, after she announced her retirement earlier this week.

However, a David and Goliath battle looked imminent early, when the Thunderbirds gained a four-point lead in the first quarter.

Yet, the Lightning turned up the dial on their defensive pressure, restricting their opponents to just 22 goals for the rest of the match.

Whilst the win means Sunshine Coast have secured a home final, goal attack Stephanie Wood insisted her side needed to improve their consistency after a slow start.

“(We are) looking for that four quarter performance,” Wood said post-match.

“I guess it’s a little frustrating for us at times because in the last 3 quarters we showed what we can do.”

Wood’s powerful leadership coupled with her dependably impressive play will go a long way in lifting her side.

If the Lightning continue their relentlessly prolific game style, they are well on their way to a Super Netball three-peat.