MAGPIES SWOOP IN

COLLINGWOOD Magpies hope to build their strong recent form into a three-match winning streak when they play Queensland Firebirds in Round 10 Super Netball in Launceston tomorrow.

In a battle of the fourth and fifth-placed teams, the higherranked Magpies hold this season’s bragging rights after scoring a 54-50 win against the Queenslanders in Round 2.

And with their confidence lifted after last week’s impressive win against the Giants, Magpies coach Kristy Keppich-Birrell is upbeat about the side’s chances playing at the Silverdome for the first time.

“Last week really helped the belief of the group and the confidence in the team,” she said.

A win tomorrow will give the Magpies a three-point buffer over the Firebirds as the race for finals intensifies.

“We want to be in control of our own destiny,” KeppichBirrell said.

The coach is expecting big things from her team, particularly Sharni Layton who will line up on prolific goalscorer and offensive rebounder Romelda Aiken.

Caitlin Thwaites is in scintillating form and has been Magpies’ go-to goalie, but will have her work cut out for her against Laura Clemesha.

The Magpies, touted as premiership favourites before the season began, have come under fire in some quarters regarding their selections, particularly in goal attack.

However, Keppich-Birrell is taking little notice.

“We’re a new team in a new environment and with people telling you who should be — it’s hard — but that’s why we’ve recruited great people.”

Keppich-Birrell said the team was excited to have the opportunity to play in front of a Tasmanian crowd for the first time.

The Magpies held an open session yesterday, giving fans an insight into training at an elite level. Tasmanian under-17 state players Courtney Treloar and Piper Sanders were invited to attend the training run.

Match starts at noon tomorrow. Tickets via Launceston Silverdome.