Queensland Firebirds v Collingwood Magpies

The first draw of the season saw the Firebirds and Magpies go down to the wire with a 57-all tie.

It was goal-for-goal for most of the first quarter with both teams showing some exciting signs right across the court but the home sides defensive line-up in Tara Hinhcliffe and Kim Jenner started the match incredibly strong yet again.

Romelda Aiken was out on the Queensland State Netball Centre with a point to prove after being benched in the final quarter of their season opener last week.

Nat Medhurst was removed from the court early after sustaining a cut lip in a clash with Jenner and had to receive stitches but wouldn't return until the second quarter.

While Kelsey Browne provided speed and agility down the Magpies midcourt, the team made some costly mistakes towards the half-time break and couldn’t quite finish in their attack end as the Firebirds defensive pressure continued. 

The Firebirds headed into the major break with a 32 to 24 but momentum shifted in the third quarter and the Magpies came out firing.

They scored four consecutive goals in three minutes but the home side maintained composure.

Shimona Nelson ignited and showed why she’s one of the most up-and-coming goal shooters in the world while Mentor and April Brandley played a physical defensive game on the Firebirds shooters.

The stage was set for a fourth-quarter showdown with the Magpies trailing by a goal.

They took the lead within five minutes and it was hard-fought and physical play by both teams all over the court, going goal-for-goal yet again.

Both teams were scrambling over every loose ball and it was a matter who was going to be leading when the siren went.