IT was a relatively unsuccessful year for the Queensland Firebirds who only managed one win for the season and came agonisingly close in a couple of other match-ups, registering two draws. Despite the challenging season there are plenty of positives to come out of 2019, with some young up-and-coming players making their way through the ranks. The Firebirds were hit with injury after injury throughout their 2019 campaign, unable to get continuity in their game.

Position: 8th
Percentage: 89.17%
Win-loss: 1-2-11

Overview:

Mahalia Cassidy was ruled out early in the year, struck down with an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury and leaving the midcourt stocks relatively weaker before South African recruit Erin Burger made a much needed cameo. Burger worked tirelessly both in defence and attack during her time with the Firebirds, while an injury to Jamaican shooter Romelda Aiken saw the key player sidelined for a number of weeks. The injury prompted the signing of South African quick-fire goal shooter Lenize Potgieter who paired well with Gretel Tippett under the post. Despite being injured for parts of the season the combination between Kim Jenner and Tara Hinchliffe steadily developed, with the two showing plenty of promise for future years. Captain Gabi Simpson controlled the defensive end using her experience and off the body marking to assist the two young defenders. The season also farewelled two netball greats in Caitlyn Nevins and Laura Clemesha, leaving some gaping holes in the 2020 squad.

Shining light:

Although it was a trying year for Queensland, Tippett stood tall in the attack end, making history with 100 consecutive national league goals and leading from the front. The unorthodox goal attack displayed her attacking flair, creativity and sheer athleticism week on week, single handedly dragging her side back into the contest time and time again. She was proved unstoppable when given the time and space to go about her business, both under the post and in the attacking third, while also showcasing her presence defensively with her three foot marking and physicality. Her ability to adapt to the rotation of goal shooters such as Aiken, Potgieter and Abigail Latu-Meafou was pivotal to the Firebirds, able to switch up her gameplay depending on what was required by her fellow goalers. Tippett was arguably in career best form this season, displaying all her attributes from her speed and strength to cleanliness with ball in hand and impressive vision.

2020 predictions:

It is fair to say that the Firebirds are in the rebuilding stage, but they have plenty of upside with coach Roselee Jencke backing the defensive duo of Jenner and Hinchliffe. With further exposure to the highest standard the two could form a formidable unit credit to their defensive pressure. Already known for their tenacity, intercepting ability and commitment to the contest, if they can hone in their untidiness and stay away from the whistle it could go a long way in helping the club reach further heights next year.