Game one saw the Storm quick out of the blocks and into the lead early.
They were able to hold onto a five-goal lead at the major break.
But the Pies returned to the court refocused for the second half and managed push ahead to get the lead, 44 to 49 at the end of the third.
Collingwood Magpie SSN player, Gabrielle Sinclair starred shooting at 90% accuracy throughout the second half.
Sunshine Coast Lightning player, Cara Koenen was also strong within the ring for the Sting shooting 42 from 47 goals for the entire game.
In the end, the Sting’s attack was just too dominant which saw them take the win, 60 to 63.
Magpies’ coach, Elissa Kent remained positive despite the close loss. “There were some good signs but the match also demonstrated how a lapse in concentration can ultimately cost you the game,” Kent told magpiesnetball.com.au.
In Sunday’s game, the Pies sort redemption early with a more coherent effort that saw them rewarded winning all four quarters.
“It was a much more consistent performance with some excellent combination work with all 12 of our squad members making a strong impact throughout the game,” Kent said.
“Kelsie Rainbow showed her ability to play excellent netball across both wing-attack and centre and to work in different combinations seamlessly.”
The Pies will now turn its focus to the DUANL finals campaign to be played in Melbourne on the final weekend of June.
Kent says her team doesn’t feel any extra pressure as the reigning premiers and instead she looks forward to watching what this group can achieve and learn throughout the finals experience.
“There’s pressure in every game, particularly the pressure that each individual player puts on themselves as they always want to be at their best and strive to be at the top.
“We are a different team with a new line up and different skills to offer on court and we can’t wait to put that on display in the finals.”
AUTHOR: Alanna Mullan (Magpies Netball)
