Round 5 of the Suncorp Super Netball League (SSN) delivered a weekend of high-intensity action, with every match showcasing tight margins and standout international performances, streaming live and on demand via NetballPass.*
International Player Watch – Round 5
Vixens surge late to deny Swifts
Melbourne Vixens produced a strong final-quarter performance to defeat NSW Swifts 66–59, overcoming a determined challenge in a tightly contested clash.
Despite entering the match in contrasting form, both sides were evenly matched early, trading goals throughout the opening quarter. The Swifts edged ahead at halftime, 34–32, led by the influence of New Zealand’s Grace Nweke in attack.
However, the Vixens shifted momentum in the closing stages, pulling clear in the fourth quarter to secure the win.
Captain Kate Moloney was once again central to the Vixens’ success, orchestrating play through the midcourt with 22 feeds, alongside an intercept and deflection in a composed all-round performance.
Thunderbirds hold off fast-finishing Giants
Adelaide Thunderbirds maintained their unbeaten record, surviving a late scare from Giants Netball to claim a narrow 56–54 victory.
The Giants defied expectations early, taking control of the first half with a fearless approach. Defensive pressure from Jodi-Ann Ward and Erin O’Brien disrupted the Thunderbirds’ attacking rhythm, limiting their efficiency through the midcourt.
But the Thunderbirds responded when it mattered most. In a clutch final quarter, Georgie Horjus delivered under pressure, converting three Super Shots to seal the result.
While the Giants fell short, their performance marked a significant step forward as they continue to search for their first win of the season.
Mavericks strengthen Finals push
Melbourne Mavericks boosted their Finals credentials with a commanding 62–53 win over Sunshine Coast Lightning.
Controlling the contest from the outset, the Mavericks executed with precision across the court to secure a crucial result that lifts them into fourth position.
Midcourt leader Jamie-Lee Price set the tone with an influential performance, recording 22 goal assists and 36 feeds, while also generating four turnovers.
At the shooting end, Shimona Nelson was dominant, converting 56 of 61 attempts in a clinical display under the post.
Fever withstand Firebirds fightback
West Coast Fever held off a late surge from Queensland Firebirds to secure a 58–54 win in a hard-fought encounter.
The match opened at an even pace, with scores locked at 15–15 after the first quarter, before Fever gained control through the middle stages.
Rising talent Olivia Wilkinson made an immediate impact in her season debut, sinking consecutive Super Shots to help establish a crucial lead, which Fever extended in a dominant third quarter.
The Firebirds rallied late, with Elsa Sif Sandholt providing a spark off the bench, shooting with perfect accuracy and adding a Super Shot in a strong final-term effort.
Despite winning the last quarter, the Firebirds were unable to overturn the deficit, with Fever holding firm to close out the match.
Fans can catch up on all Round 5 matches via NetballPass, with Round 6 set to begin on Saturday, 18 April.*
