Fever Pipped for Shootout Crown

West Coast Fever have fallen just short of the 2016 ANZ Championship Pre-Season Shootout crown, as a late Melbourne Vixens Super Shot stole a one goal win in the final.

 

In a low scoring contest, the 3-point trial rule proved popular with both teams, and ultimately secured victory for the Melbourne side.

 

A defensively focused first half saw two and a half minutes of play before a goal was registered, as both mid-courts fought hard to gain an advantage.

 

Fever shooters Kaylia Stanton and Kate Beveridge continued their exceptional form from long range with a series of Super Shots late in the opening half, as the West Coast side took a seven goal lead to the break.

 

Fever extended the margin to 10 shortly after the interval courtesy of another 3-point shot from Stanton, before the Vixens began their fight back.

 

Despite Fever’s best efforts to halt the shift in momentum, four Super Shots from Vixens Shooter Karyn Bailey, including a clutch effort in the final minute, guided Melbourne to victory.

 

Fever Head Coach Stacey Rosman was full of praise for her side.

 

“I can’t fault the team’s effort, I’m very proud of them,” Rosman said.

 

“The intent and composure with which they played is what we want to be known for as a team.”

 

“For us, this weekend was about making consistent marginal gains across the three days of competition, and I certainly believe we’ve realised that goal.”

 

“This tournament has provided an invaluable test, and one that leaves us well prepared ahead of the season proper.”

 

Earlier in the day, Fever qualified for the final courtesy of narrow wins over the Vixens (three goals) and Mainlaind Tactix (one goal) respectively, the first sealed with a Super Shot from Beveridge after the siren.

 

The team’s attention now switches to their ANZ Championship season opener at HBF Stadium on Saturday April 2 against the Adelaide Thunderbirds.

–  Article originally published via westcoastfever.com.au