The Magpies were in the race early in the first quarter but with the Fury taking a 4-goal lead late in the term, the Pies struggled to make up the difference in the remainder of the game.
Coming back in the second half, the Pies lacked connections and were hesitant on the drive to the ball, ultimately leading the Fury to claim victory, 65 to 41.
Magpies head coach, Elissa Kent put the loss down to the Pies’ inability to stand up to the Fury’s pressure and physicality particularly within the ring.
“With a big score board pressure, the Magpies came off structures and found it difficult to win ball against a confident Fury line up,” Kent told magpiesnetball.com.au.
“But it was positive to see all players take to the court and try out new combinations.”
Returning for game two on Monday’s public holiday, the Pies managed to find the ball early and convert.
But they struggled to remain consistent and uphold that same intensity for the four-quarters.
It all came down to the Fury’s strong contest which saw them going on to claim the win, 54 to 48.
“The Fury had a strong target in their goal circle which they used off the circle edge which made it difficult to win as much ball,” said Kent.
“Although there were some positive signs of improvement, we will need to address that ability to close out the quarter as we had the opportunity to win.”
Despite the losses, the Magpies remain in third position on the ladder.
They now shift their focus to the final game of the home and away season against the Territory Storm on the Sunshine Coast this weekend.
Kent admits it will be a tough weekend but remains excited to see what her team can offer taking on a strong opponent in the Storm.
“What a fantastic challenge for this group and I’m looking forward to seeing who stands up to the mental and physical battle of putting their best out on court.”
ANL Round 7 – Territory Storm
Game 1 – Saturday 15th at 5.30pm – University Sunshine Coast
Game 2 – Sunday 11am at 11am – University Sunshine Coast
AUTHOR: Alanna Mullan (Magpies Netball)
