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The Melbourne Vixens downed the Adelaide Thunderbirds 52-46 today in a clash between two Australian netball powerhouses in the ANZ Championship.
Caitlin Thwaites top-scored for the Vixens with 29 goals and captain Sharelle McMahon had 23 in the victory before a capacity crowd of more than 3,000 fans at ETSA Stadium.
The third-placed Vixens improved their win-loss record to 5-1, the same as the two teams above them – the Queensland Firebirds and the Waikato-Bay of Plenty Magic, although the Magic will go a game clear if they beat the Southern Steel tomorrow.
The fourth-placed Thunderbirds, who were riding a four-game winning streak coming into today’s clash, slipped to 4-2.
Natalie Medhurst top-scored with 29 goals for Adelaide, but goalshooter Kristen Hughes made way for Kate Beveridge at halftime after scoring seven goals at just 50 per cent.
Thunderbirds’ coach Jane Woodlands admitted the Adelaide side needed better accuracy from their shooter.
“We were totally responsible for our own demise,” she said.
Adelaide were well served by captain Natalie Von Bertouch, wing attack Alex Clarke and goal defence Mo’onia Gerrard, who was moved to wing defence in the last quarter.
Vixens’ coach Julie Hoornweg said it was not the most physical game her team had faced this season.
“Our off the ball game has really lifted this year,” she said.
After last meeting the Thunderbirds in round three, Hoornweg said her team’s aim was to improve on their disappointing one-goal home loss.
“The Thunderbirds are a benchmark and we wanted to make sure we maintained full pressure for the full 60 minutes,” she said.
Woodlands said it was unfortunate the Thunderbirds were unable to sustain momentum for the last quarter.
The Vixens’ next match is away to the Firebirds next Sunday, while the Thunderbirds will play the NSW Swifts at ETSA Stadium on May 26.