By Pip Turton
The Sunshine Coast Lightning have produced a thrilling last-minute victory over the Queensland Firebirds in a dramatic Queensland derby at UniSC on Saturday, delivering a high-intensity contest that went right down to the final seconds.
Both teams entered the clash desperate to respond after opening-round defeats, and the pressure was evident from the outset.
The opening minutes were fast, physical and slightly scrappy as both sides adjusted to the intensity of the derby atmosphere.
Each possession was fiercely contested, and neither team was willing to concede an inch.
Mary Cholhok shooting at goal during a powerful attacking play.
A key focus heading into the match was the midcourt battle between Mahalia Cassidy and Macy Gardner. Both players were instrumental throughout, showcasing their versatility and work rate across multiple midcourt roles. Their duel added another layer of excitement as they constantly pushed the tempo and created opportunities for their respective sides.
The Firebirds struck first, with Mary Cholhok dominating under the post early, converting 12 goals in a commanding opening quarter. Her presence gave the Firebirds an early edge, while the Lightning took time to settle after a mixed start.
Despite the Firebirds’ early control, the Lightning began to find their rhythm as the quarter progressed. Missed opportunities from the Firebirds allowed the Lightning to close the gap, with Cassidy linking effectively into attack and feeding Donnell Wallam, who began to grow in confidence inside the circle.
Lightning coach Belinda Reynolds was clear about her team’s mindset heading into the clash.
“Last week was disappointing we certainly didn’t play to our potential and we are ready to respond this week. Battle of Bruce is always a highlight in our season, and we look forward to playing in front of our home crowd," Reynolds said.
Her comments reflected the energy and intent from the Lightning, who were determined to lift after their Round 1 performance.
Cara Koenen in possession of the ball, driving the play forward for the Sunshine Coast Lightning.
The second quarter saw the Firebirds return to their strengths, increasing their ball speed and movement through the midcourt. Lara Dunkley worked tirelessly on the circle edge, while Cholhok continued to dominate on the rebounds and second-chance opportunities.
However, the Lightning began to assert themselves defensively. Courtney Bruce, supported by Ava Black, applied strong pressure inside the defensive end, disrupting the Firebirds’ attacking flow and forcing crucial turnovers.
At the other end, Wallam remained a key focal point, adding 11 goals for the term, while Liz Watson moved into centre and brought composure and control to the Lightning’s attack. Her ability to organise the play allowed the Lightning to stay within striking distance.
The Firebirds still managed to edge ahead at halftime, with two late goals from Cholhok helping them maintain a narrow advantage after a competitive and high-quality first half.
Mary Cholhok and Karin Burger showing the passion and intensity of the Queensland derby.
The third quarter exploded into a back-and-forth battle, with both teams lifting the intensity and refusing to give ground. The contest became a true arm wrestle, with momentum swinging from one end to the other in a display of fast-paced, attacking netball.
Selby-Rickit and Gardner played important roles in feeding the Firebirds’ attacking end, while the Lightning began to take advantage of the Super Shot. Wallam stepped up in a big way, producing a dominant quarter that helped shift the momentum.
Her 13-goal effort in the third term was crucial, as the Lightning surged into the lead for the first time in the match. The energy shifted, and suddenly it was the Firebirds under pressure heading into the final quarter.
Macy Gardner working hard in the midcourt, driving the ball forward.
The Firebirds, however, were not finished. Imogen Allison led a strong defensive effort, applying pressure and forcing errors at key moments. The intensity of the contest remained high as both sides pushed through fatigue and physical challenges.
A stoppage due to a nose injury to Kelly Jackson saw Isabelle Shearer enter the match, adding fresh legs as the game approached its climax. With slippery conditions affecting play, both teams had to remain composed and adapt as the pressure mounted.
With just minutes remaining and only a couple of goals separating the teams, the match reached a gripping final phase. Every pass, intercept and shot carried enormous weight as the crowd roared with anticipation.
Wallam demanded the ball in attack as the Lightning looked to close out the contest. In a moment of pure composure and skill, she rose to the occasion.
With the scores tight and the clock winding down, Wallam delivered a clutch Super Shot that proved decisive. The goal sent the Lightning into the lead at the most crucial moment, sealing a dramatic and hard-fought victory.
The final whistle confirmed a memorable Queensland derby, with Lightning taking it out 63-62 against the Firebirds.
The Sunshine Coast Lightning face the NSW Swifts on Sat 28 March, 7:00pm AEDT at UniSC Arena, while the Queensland Firebirds take on the Adelaide Thunderbirds on Sun 29 March, 2:00pm AEDT at Nissan Arena.
