Giants v Lightning (56 – 60)

The Sunshine Coast Lightning won their sixth game in a row, after a 60 – 56 victory over Giants Netball.

Whilst their triumph was briefly rewarded with top position on the ladder, a victory for the NSW Swifts later Saturday evening meant they quickly slid back to second spot.

Both teams showed their class early, playing clean and efficient netball, determined to salvage all the points they could get.

Despite showing unwavering fight, the Giants struggled to push past the Lightning, who have beaten them in the last two premierships.

Inaccuracy at the ring hurt the Giants, shooting at just 78 percent, well below their season average of 86 percent.

However, the Noeline Taurua-coached Lightning proved why they could be the team to beat in finals, with star power laced throughout the court.

Steph Wood was an engine for her side, capitalising on superb feeds from Lightning midcourters, Laura Langman and Laura Scherian.

Yet, heading towards finals, the Lightning will be looking to elevate their strength and stability in the circle.

“There’s definitely things we need to improve on from that game,” Wood said post-match.

“I thought throughout it we could have pushed the lead out a little bit more.”

Whilst the top three ladder positions appear to be locked for the season, this loss for the Giants means they are barely hanging on to their finals spot.