The Lightning Bolts made a strong start to open the match, edging ahead early in the first quarter. The Fever Reserves responded well, lifting their defensive pressure through captain Scarlet Jauncey and Caitlyn Brown to work their way back into the contest.
Sophie Eastaugh opened the super shot account for the match, helping the two sides head into the first break level on the scoreboard.
The arm‑wrestle continued in the second quarter, with both teams trading momentum before Fever managed to nudge in front, taking a narrow one‑goal advantage into the main break.
Momentum shifted in the third term as the Bolts found accuracy under the ring and capitalised on their opportunities to establish a buffer. Despite the setback, Fever continued to compete, but were left chasing the game from that point on.
The Reserves showed resilience in the final quarter, with young shooter Skyla Payne standing tall and working tirelessly to claw goals back and keep the pressure on to the final whistle.
While the result went the way of the home side, there were encouraging signs across the court for the Fever Reserves as the group continues to build combinations and momentum early in the season.
