The stage is set for a blockbuster NSW derby this ANZAC Day as the NSW Swifts take on GIANTS Netball at Ken Rosewall Arena at 5:00pm.
The Swifts hold a clear historical edge, leading the head-to-head 14 wins to five but they come into this clash still searching for momentum as the season reaches the halfway point.
SECURE YOUR SEAT HERE
Head Coach Briony Akle emphasised the importance of a positive result this weekend after falling short in the final quarter against the Firebirds last Saturday.
“We just need one win to get us over the line and our season to launch. We want to get that winning feeling back to push us even further,” Akle said.
“We are training very well and looking at all avenues, it is just a confidence and discipline thing and being better in the moments where we are six or seven goals up.”
Maddy Proud echoed that sentiment, highlighting the need for composure and execution in key moments.
“As senior players, we need to use our experience to keep us alive. There are so many moments of nearly gaining the ball back, but not getting there, or it’s a penalty,” she said.
“It comes down to discipline and connection, but as a whole team, we want to go errorless this week.”
The Swifts, in partnership with Women Veterans Australia, will be hosting an all-female ANZAC Day Ceremony which will commence 15 minutes before the first centre pass.
"As a Club we are proud to support Women Veterans Australia and to play our part in striving for greater equality and recognition," Akle said.
"Elite netball is fast, physical and highly demanding but it's not war. We all get to go home which isn't always the case for our veterans.
"However, we do share a common bond with female veterans when it comes to the fight for equality and greater recognition in narratives that remain male dominated."
The match will take place at 5pm (AEST) on Saturday 25 April at Ken Rosewall Arena. NSW Swifts fans can watch from the comfort of their home on Kayo Sports, Binge or Foxtel.
MATCH NOTES:
When the teams last met in Round 11 last season the Swifts defeated the GIANTS 75-66.
The Swifts lead head to head in 20 previous meetings with 14 wins, five losses and a draw.
The Swifts have won the past seven meetings against the GIANTS. The GIANTS last win over the Swifts was in Round 1, 2022 with a 57-55 victory.
In 20 previous meetings 16 matches have been decided in single digits or drawn. Three matches have been decided by 1-goal and all won by the Swifts.
The Swifts and GIANTS have met at Ken Rosewall Arena on nine previous occasions with the Swifts winning eight and the GIANTS one. The GIANTS only win over the Swifts at KRA was in Round 1, 2022 (57-55).
