The Bull Sharks experienced mixed fortunes from their trip to Nissan Arena on Sunday.
The Sapphire girls went down after a second half fade-out while the Ruby Series side set up an important win with a dominant third quarter.
Bull Sharks v Jets at Nissan Arena
Ruby
Bull Sharks won 54 – 36.
Where was it won:
The girls took control of the game in the second quarter. We displayed our solid defence to deny the Jets from scoring for the first six minutes of the quarter. From there we were able to maintain momentum throughout the game to extend our lead and finish with a solid win.
The highlight:
This was a crucial game for us as we had to win to keep our finals hopes alive. It was a challenge thrown at the girls and they not only stepped up to the task, but also thrived off it.
What made you happy:
It was heart-warming to see the Northern Gold Coast Netball Association in attendance, lending their support to our athletes. Their presence was especially significant for Tehya and Elka, who proudly represented the Northern Gold Coast throughout their representative years.
Bull Sharks Netball:
In the game preview I mentioned the importance of the win for us and was so pleased to see that our athletes were able to embrace the pressure this week to play a very skilled and clean game of netball.
The work to do:
Leading up to next week we will aim to improve on our decision-making during high pressure moments in the game.
Trademark player:
Tehya Hyssett and Harriet Nicholson excelled defensively, contributing to our team's success by securing valuable ball. Charli Pearse faced intense defensive pressure from multiple Wing Defences from the Jets but was able to maintain her composure and played a consistent game.
With Kim Boland.
Sapphire
Bull Sharks lost 64-48.
Where was it lost:
We had a great first half and were on the hunt however a slow start in the third quarter led to our downfall. Jets played with confidence and freedom, and we saw the score creep up gradually until it became too much of a task for us to recoup.
The highlight:
We had an excellent first half. With a strong focus on controlling opposition scoring runs, we were able to execute a change in momentum when this occurred to keep the margin close.
What made you happy:
Their team attitude. They work for one another not only on the court but off the court too.
Bull Sharks Netball:
Even when the game felt like it was lost, the girls kept fighting to the reduce the margin and finish as strongly as they could.
The work to do:
Our finals hopes are still alive. We will have to win the next two games, but unfortunately rely on other results, which may not be determined until the final round. Training this week will involve some serious analysis as we prepare for our next game against the Tigers.
Trademark player:
Sophie Westover had a very solid game in centre. She controlled play in the attack end and defensively was a menace.
With Rebecca Stower.