Intensity can spark Lightning

THE Sunshine Coast can qualify for the 2018 Suncorp Super Netball decider if it brings the same razor-sharp finals intensity from its victory over the Firebirds last Sunday.

The educated insight of three-time championship winner and new Australian Diamonds defensive coach Clare Ferguson (nee McMeniman) made the observation before Sunday’s preliminary final between the Lightning and Giants in Sydney.

Ferguson — who won three grand finals with the Firebirds and captained Australia in her final season in 2016 — will join the Diamonds staff for the Quad Series and Constellation Cup campaigns.

She has kept an eye on the Suncorp Super Netball season as a sideline commentator.

Ferguson was courtside on Sunday when the Lightning defenders, led by captain Geva Mentor, set the tone for the champions, who were more composed, clinical and calculated than the home side in the sudden-death derby.

She said the Lightning were striking their best form at the right time and a repeat effort could catapult the Sunshine Coast into the grand final against West Coast Fever at Perth Arena on August 26.

“The Lightning are on an upward trajectory. I think they have what it takes to go down to Sydney and beat the Giants,’’ Ferguson said.

“Their defensive end against the Firebirds was just so incredibly strong. They had an incredible connection across the court. That is the first time we’ve seen them fire collaboratively as a full seven.’’

She said the teams were well matched in terms of experience with Kim Green, Bec Bulley, Susan Pettitt and English duo Jo Harten and Serena Guthrie giving the Giants poise under pressure.