By Pip Turton
The Melbourne Mavericks have secured a vital 62 to 53 win over Sunshine Coast Lightning in a match that carried significant weight for ladder positioning, with both sides fighting to stay in contention as the season builds.
For the Mavericks, the result comes as a much-needed breakthrough after several weeks of narrow losses.
From the opening whistle, the Mavericks looked sharp and purposeful.
Jamie-Lee Price was particularly influential early, showcasing her vision and control with a perfectly placed lob into Nelson to extend the lead and settle the Mavericks into the contest.
Despite an early response from Donnell Wallam, who worked hard to keep the Lightning within reach, the Mavericks began to assert control through defensive pressure and strong work rate across the court.
Jessie Grenvold produced an important intercept that halted Lightning momentum and created another scoring opportunity, reinforcing the Mavericksâ intent.
The difference in urgency was clear, Mavericks were proactive both ahead of and behind the ball, and their effort translated into scoreboard pressure as they pushed out to a six goals to one run.
Their ability to utilise space in the attacking third allowed them to generate high-quality opportunities, while Lightning struggled to find structure and consistency through the midcourt.
By the end of the first quarter, the Mavericks had built a strong 19 to 12 lead.
Reilley Batcheldor composes herself against Lightning's defensive pressure
The second quarter saw the Lightning attempt to reset, with key changes: Gabrielle Sinclair moved into goal attack, and Cara Koenen shifted to goal shooter.
While there were moments of promise, including a super shot from Sinclair, the Mavericksâ defensive unit remained composed.
Courtney Bruce and Karin Burger worked tirelessly to disrupt attacking flow.
But the Mavericks continued to build as Maddie Hay was outstanding through the midcourt, consistently providing drive and connection, while Jamie-Lee Price maintained control and composure. Her performance across the game stood out, not just for her attacking contribution but for her ability to dictate tempo and create opportunities under pressure.
Amy Parmenter also impressed with her game awareness, choosing to play on quickly and maintain momentum rather than waiting for the whistle.
Despite flashes of improvement, Lightning were unable to convert enough of their centre pass opportunities, and the scoreboard reflected that imbalance.
At halftime, the Mavericks held a commanding 35 to 26 lead.
Lightning coach Belinda Reynolds was candid in her assessment, pointing to effort and identity as key concerns.
âOur work rate has to be there ahead of and behind the ball,â she said, later adding, âThis isnât our brand of netball,â as her side struggled to find consistency, particularly through the opening half.
Leesa Mi Mi looks to pass the ball down court
The third quarter brought a shift in momentum as Lightning lifted their intensity, applying greater defensive pressure and finding a stronger connection through the court.
Courtney Bruce led the charge in defence, contesting strongly and creating opportunities, while improved delivery into Donnell Wallam allowed the shooting circle to function more effectively.
Wallamâs presence became increasingly influential as she converted consistently and gave the Lightning a reliable target. The midcourt also began to settle, resulting in more controlled and effective attacking play.
This impact was immediate as Lightning outscored the Mavericks by seven goals for the quarter, cutting the margin to just two goals at 46 to 44 and setting up a tense final term.
Mavericks coach Gerard Murphy delivered a clear and direct message during the third term, reinforcing accountability across the court. He called on his players to lift their intent, emphasising that there could be no âspectatingâ and no waiting for moments to unfold, instead demanding action and ownership in every phase of play.
Maddie Hay holds steady against Ash Ervin
With the game on the line, the Mavericks responded.
They opened the fourth quarter strongly, regaining control through disciplined ball movement and renewed defensive pressure.
Ash Ervin made her presence felt in the defensive circle, while debutant Charlotte Sexton entered the game and added fresh energy.
Lightning continued to fight, with Courtney Bruce producing key moments and Donnell Wallam converting under pressure to keep the margin within three goals. For a period, the result remained within reach.
Mavericks showed the composure that had eluded them in previous weeks, maintaining their structure, controlled possession, and executing when it mattered most.
In the closing minutes, their ability to steady and convert ensured the Lightning could not close the gap.
The final whistle confirmed a 62 to 53 victory and a secure spot in 4th position on the ladder for the Melbourne Mavericks
