Sting Secure Emotional Berth in Home ANL Finals Series
Western Sting have secured their spot in next weekend’s Australian Netball League (ANL) finals series in Perth, with a three goal victory over the Tasmanian Magpies at the State Netball Centre.
In front of their largest home crowd of the season, including more than 40 former Western Australian State representatives dating back to the 1950’s, Sting stormed to their second win in as many days to cement third spot on the competition ladder in the final round of the regular season.
Western Sting Head Coach Michelle Wilkins said the victory held extra significance.
“I think that win today meant a lot to our group,” Wilkins said.
“To secure our place in finals in front of a big home crowd, particularly that group of past players, was a special moment for us.”
“These players are very proud to represent WA each time they take the court and the opportunity to play in front of those that have gone before them was not lost on the team today.”
“There is no doubt it gave us a lift, particularly in that final quarter, and we look forward to getting out in front of our home supporters again in the finals next weekend.”
The two teams traded goals in the opening stages of the first quarter, before the Tasmanian side took advantage of turnover ball to establish a two goal lead which they took to the quarter time break.
A fast paced start to the second quarter form the home side saw Sting seize the momentum, as the midcourt combination of Captain Jess Eales, Lindal Rohde and Brittany Turnbull found increasing time and space with the ball in hand.
The West Australians managed to convert their opportunities to affect a six goal swing across the second term, taking a four goal advantage to the main break in the process.
Magpies took full advantage of the interval, as the visitors had all the running in the early exchanges of the third quarter to erase Sting’s lead and level the scores.
Sting could do little to halt the Tasmanian’s drive, with the Magpies translating on court pressure to the scoreboard, to hold a two goal lead at the final break.
With their season on the line, Sting returned with intent in the fourth quarter to challenge Magpies stranglehold on the lead.
The passionate home crowd came into their own as Sting levelled the scores, boosting their team to a new level in the final ten minutes of the contest to ultimately prove the difference.
While Tasmania continued to push their case, the drive came too late as Sting went on to secure a three goal victory and their place in the ANL finals.
Sting will be joined in next weekend’s finals series, to be contested across Saturday and Sunday, by the Vic Fury, Canberra Giants and Queensland Fusion.
Doors will be open at the State Netball Centre from 2:30pm on Saturday afternoon, with centre pass in the first game scheduled for 4pm.
Tickets will be available for purchase at the door.
Western Sting –58
Tasmanian Magpies –55
– NetballWA