Clubs flick to quick switch
THE controversial super shot rule may have been all the talk in the opening two rounds of the Super Netball season, but two games in three days is about to bring the other big change into the spotlight.
The tactical nous of the eight Super Netball coaches will be tested as the condensed season hits express mode and rolling substitutions become key weapons.
Breaks as short as 48 hours between weekend and midweek games have put the season on fast forward and management of players will be crucial for teams looking to come out of the speed zone in best shape.
The three-month delay to the season caused by COVID-19 ensured most teams were more prepared for a season then ever before — and they’ll need to be.
Rolling substitutions have been introduced this season — allowing unlimited player injections during play as well as at stoppages and quarter breaks — and coaches agree that mastering the new rule could be the difference between season success and failure.
Vixens coach Simone McKinnis was able to rest midcourt stars Kate Moloney and Liz Watson for a full quarter each in Melbourne’s 78-50 win over the Firebirds in Brisbane on Saturday, thinking ahead to their clash against the Lightning just 72 hours later on Wednesday.
Sunshine Coast coach Kylee Byrne used the rolling sub to inject Steph Wood into the Lightning’s match against the Magpies on Sunday, knowing if the gun shooter’s knee injury did not stand up she could quickly swap her out of the game.
“I think this year having the condensed season and midweek games means that you’ve got to be really smart with it,” Byrne said.
The Lightning are unbeaten after two games and share top spot on the ladder with the Vixens and Swifts.