Melbourne Vixens Celebrate Premiership Flag with Strong Performance
The Melbourne Vixens made a memorable statement in their latest Super Netball match, celebrating the unveiling of their premiership flag with a thrilling 70-59 victory over the Sunshine Coast Lightning. The win not only highlighted their strong form but also showcased the brilliance of Kiera Austin, whose performance was pivotal in securing the win.
The Vixens had spent the first three rounds of the season on the road, so Sunday’s game at the John Cain Arena provided the perfect opportunity to unveil last year’s premiership flag to their loyal supporters. However, the match started with a challenge as the Lightning took an early lead, going into the second quarter with a 28-21 advantage.
Despite this, the Vixens found their rhythm thanks to a standout performance from Kiera Austin. Her ability to hit crucial shots proved to be the turning point in the game. Austin converted seven out of eight Super Shots, adding 20 regular goals to her tally. Five of those Super Shots came in the first half, showcasing her consistency and composure under pressure.
“She might have a patch when she doesn’t feel like she’s playing at her very best, but we back her to come in and be able to turn it on,” said Vixens skipper Kate Moloney. “I thought she did a great job of keeping us in it, and then having a great second half as well.”
Another key performer for the Vixens was goal shooter Sophie Garbin, who delivered a near-perfect display, scoring 36 goals from 37 attempts. Her efficiency helped maintain the team’s momentum throughout the match.
With this win, the Vixens (4-0) and the Adelaide Thunderbirds remain the only two unbeaten teams after four rounds of the season. Meanwhile, the Lightning fell to a 2-2 record, despite a strong effort from their goal shooter Donnell Wallam.
Wallam scored 44 goals from 50 attempts, but struggled with her Super Shots, managing just 2 out of 9. The Lightning led 17-16 at the end of the first quarter, marking the first time this season they had won an opening term.
The Lightning looked to build on their early lead, taking a seven-goal advantage late in the second quarter. This put the Vixens on the back foot, but Austin’s long-range shooting helped reduce the deficit to just one goal by halftime.
In the third quarter, the Vixens regained control, taking a three-goal lead into the final term. They finished the game strongly, dominating the last quarter with a score of 22-14.
This victory not only solidified the Vixens’ position at the top of the table but also highlighted their resilience and ability to perform under pressure. With Austin and Garbin leading the way, the team is proving to be a formidable force in the Super Netball competition.
