Townsville given top marks by Aussie duo
THE Australian Diamonds believe Townsville has proven itself as a legitimate destination for big- ticket netball clashes after fans voted with their feet at Wednesday’s landmark Test against New Zealand.
Almost 4400 fans were on hand at a sold- out Townsville Entertainment and Convention Centre to watch the city’s first international clash.
Australia pulled away in the final quarter to win 56- 47 and take a 2- 0 lead in the four- Test Constellation Cup series.
Player- of- the- match Kelsey Browne and skipper Caitlin Bassett were both part of Sunshine Coast Lightning’s Suncorp Super Netball title this year, before signing with Collingwood and Greater Western Sydney for next season.
They feel Townsville could host more regular Tests, and Super Netball clashes could also be on the agenda.
“I love regional towns and playing in them,” Browne said.
“Obviously the Sunshine Coast was really special, we had a community that got behind us and I felt like I was back on the Sunny Coast ( during Wednesday’s game).
“It was so loud and every goal we scored I could hear Townsville getting behind us.
“For us to come to regional areas is really exciting and really important for us to get out and showcase netball.
“I think Townsville should put their hand up ( for a Super Netball game) and maybe we can get the Magpies up here.”
Bassett said it was important to ensure top- class netball was accessible to fans who live outside of the big cities.
“The fans we met out there with the signing session were just loving it,” Bassett said.
“I’ve already said I want to come back here.’’