The NSW Swifts’ slim Suncorp Super Netball finals hopes remain alive after they held off a spirited Queensland Firebirds fightback at Ken Rosewall Arena on Sunday.
In control at halftime with a 14-goal lead, Briony Akle’s side showed nerve and composure to wrestle back momentum after the Firebirds threatened to seize it.
The Swifts prevailed 68–62 in front of 8,000 fans. It was a genuine game of two halves - NSW dominant early, Queensland surging in the second - but the hosts ultimately deserved the win.
Full-court defence set the tone, with match MVP Tayla Fraser delivering her best performance of the season, while Sarah Klau, Maddy Turner and Sharni Lambden applied relentless pressure.
Grace Whyte’s rise continued, as did her connection with Grace Nweke. The Tumut youngster recorded a game-high 42 feeds and contributed 17 goals (including four Super Shots), while Nweke shot at 93% to finish with 51 goals.
The Swifts’ Achilles heel this season has been converting possession gains, and while the Firebirds were more efficient in this area (86% to 50%), NSW’s dominance on their own centre pass proved decisive.
The Swifts converted 82% of theirs, compared to the visitors’ 68%.
Coach Briony Akle praised her side’s start and the importance of banking the win, despite failing to kill the game off sooner after building a dominant early lead.
“It’s great to get that win, we needed that win," she said.
"We started beautifully; I would’ve loved to win by 20, but that’s OK.
“Getting the win was really important. We’ve been so close in so many games, and to get this one is really special for our group moving forward.”
Akle also highlighted defensive improvements but pointed to ongoing issues with ball security and conversion.
“The defence was much better than in previous weeks. I still think we’ve got a lot to work on with our conversion.
"We were getting ball back, but often off the centre pass and then throwing it away.
“If you throw the ball away, it’s your job to get it back.”
The Melbourne Mavericks’ win over the West Coast Fever means the Swifts must win their final two games (against the Thunderbirds and Giants) and hope the Victorians slip up twice.
It’s a tall order to reach a record 24th finals campaign in 30 years, but at least they remain in the hunt - even if only just.
