Thunderbirds lead from start to finish in a tough, physical encounter and held off a fast finishing Fever to secure a four-goal win 56-52.
The visitors jumped Fever in the first quarter to take a four-goal lead going into the first break.
Fever looked dangerous going forward with Jordan Cransberg continuing her impressive form but it was the Thunderbirds defence pressure and acts which forced Fever to turn the ball over.
While Fever lifted their defensive game in the second led by Sunday Aryang, the Thunderbirds were able to capitalise on Fever errors to extend their lead by the main break to eight goals.
After the main break, Aryang continued her stellar performance in defence and adding an attacking flair which helped to drive Fever’s attack. She was supported by the Cransberg sisters as Zoe played the entire second half at Centre.
However, Fever’s attempts to cut the Thunderbirds’ lead in the second half were halted by the defensive combination of Shamera Sterling and Latanya Wilson who continued to made life difficult for Fever.
The teams will meet again on Sunday for Game Two at the Gold Netball Centre with first pass at 10am.
| West Coast Fever |
12 |
27 |
38 |
52 |
| Adelaide Thunderbirds |
16 |
35 |
46 |
56 |
