Georgie Horjus Makes Strong Case for Commonwealth Games Spot
Georgie Horjus has made a compelling argument for her place in Australia’s Commonwealth Games team, showcasing her skills as the Adelaide Thunderbirds secured a decisive 73-49 victory over the Queensland Firebirds. The 11-cap Australian international has been vying for a starting position when the Games begin in July, but coach Stacey Marinkovich faces a tough decision with several strong contenders for the wing attack and goal attack positions.
However, Horjus took a significant step forward in her bid for selection by delivering an impressive performance. She recorded 27 feeds and 18 goal assists, along with eight goals, before being substituted in the fourth quarter at the Adelaide Entertainment Centre.
The Thunderbirds were supported by sharp shooter Elmere van der Berg, who scored 47 goals and converted four Super Shots, and Kiwi player Kate Heffernan, who contributed 35 feeds and three gains. Their performances helped the Thunderbirds maintain their five-year winning streak against the Firebirds in South Australia.
Adelaide’s win propelled them to the top of the Super Netball ladder with a record of 7-1, putting pressure on the undefeated Melbourne Vixens to secure a win against the Giants on Sunday.
Van der Berg shared her satisfaction after the game, stating, “It was a really nice game. I enjoyed being out there. To be able to take the Super Shots today felt really nice.” She also highlighted the importance of the halftime message: “To keep on grinding and keep on doing the things we do and doing it well.”
The Firebirds were aiming to bounce back from a narrow 58-57 loss to the Melbourne Mavericks in their previous match. A victory would have improved their chances of making the finals and brought them within one win of the fourth-placed Mavericks with six rounds remaining.
Despite their efforts, the Firebirds struggled in the second half, with Te Paea Selby-Rickit providing a glimmer of hope by contributing 12 feeds and 13 goals. Midcourter Maddy Gordon also played a key role, recording 32 feeds and 14 goal assists.
Firebirds goal keeper Kelly Jackson expressed her disappointment, saying, “I’m pretty gutted with that. When you give a team like that a bit of a sniff, they just run away with it.”
The game started with both teams trading goals, but the Firebirds suffered a series of turnovers in the first quarter, allowing Adelaide to take a three-point lead. Queensland improved after the break, but van der Berg’s late Super Shots extended Adelaide’s halftime lead to 34-28.
Adelaide dominated the second half, winning the third quarter 19-11 and securing a comfortable victory in the final quarter. The result further solidified their position at the top of the league table and added to the excitement surrounding the upcoming Commonwealth Games.
