The NSW Swifts and Queensland Firebirds have enjoyed a storied rivalry over three decades, but it’s been a while since both teams contested a top-four National League clash.
However, this Sunday at Ken Rosewall Arena presents an opportunity for them to light a new fire under their longtime rivalry.
A win for the Swifts would keep their 100% start the season (3-0) intact, while victory for the Queenslanders could see them supplant NSW at the summit of the Suncorp Super Netball table after four rounds.
Swifts Head Coach Briony Akle says a strong Firebirds is a wonderful thing for the competition and the game in general.
“Personally, I think it’s wonderful to see the Firebirds back and in contention,” she said.
“The rivalry between the Swifts and Firebirds, especially in those final years of the trans-Tasman League brought droves of new fans to the game so this rivalry is always cherished.
“It’s clear that Kiri (Wills, Firebirds Head Coach) has brought some fresh ideas to their playing squad and while they lost last week, they were very impressive in the opening two rounds and a win can put them top of the table so motivation won’t be an issue.
“Last year they came to Ken Rosewall Arena and beat us by a goal in what was an end-to-end game, and they outlasted us. There were times I thought we had them beaten but they kept coming. This year they are playing even better netball so the pressure is on us to perform.”
While three wins from three games, including hard-earned away successes over the Fever and Thunderbirds, have the Swifts one victory clear at the top, Akle knows the margins are fine.
“It’s been a pretty good start to the season for us but we are still to put in a full, four-quarter performance and we have a tendency to drift in and out of games," she added.
“Look, it’s been good that we’ve dominated the patches of games when we’ve held the upper hand but as the season progresses opposition teams will be banking on the fact that we’ll allow them opportunities and that’s where we need to get stronger.
“It’s nice to be sitting at the top after three rounds but it’s so early in the year. Every team is still ironing out what they can do better and that makes each game more difficult as we progress through the season.
“It’s been a good start, but that’s all it’s been – a start. We’ve got lots to do.”
The Swifts and Firebirds go head-to-head at 4pm AET this Sunday. The game will be broadcast live on Fox Sports, Binge and Kayo Sports.
