IT was Indigenous Round in the Suncorp Super Netball (SSN) and the round definitely delivered the goods, with a number of close contests as the three of the four games were decided by two goals or less. In this new series, Draft Central will look at five key learnings from the round whether it be consistent themes or standout performances.

Rahni Samason is the answer to the Vixens prayers

There has not been a better debut than that of Melbourne Vixens shooting dynamo Rahni Samason. Making a name for herself in the Victorian Netball League (VNL) pathway with the Ariels the goal shooter got her time to shine on the big stage and definitely did not disappoint. Not only was she a pillar of consistency from the opening whistle, showing no signs of nerves she landed the winning shot of the game from super shot distance. With the weight of the world on her shoulders, Samason showcased nothing but composure and execution to nail the winning goal and send the Vixens into absolute hysterics. Samason impressed with her versatility to spend time out in goal attack but did her most damage when stationed at home at goal shooter. The most impressive part of her debut performance was her willingness to go to post from just about anywhere, unfazed by the distance and instead just backing herself in.

Could the Fever and GIANTS game be a grand final preview?

With the current standings, it is fair to assume that the Fever and GIANTS are likely contenders for the premiership with the two sides putting out a scintillating performance. Although the ladder did not represent the closeness with the Fever still overcoming their 12 point salary breach deficit both teams were undefeated heading into the clash and it definitely lived up to the hype. Leading for majority of the game the GIANTS fell short by a goal and were subsequently handed their first loss of the season albeit under controversial circumstances. With Jhaniele Fowler at the helm and Courtney Bruce dishing off her fair share of physicality down back the Fever somehow stole the win from right under the nose of the GIANTS despite the new combination of Jo Harten and Sophie Dwyer chugging along nicely up front. It was a high-octane contest from the opening whistle with neither side relenting and clearly separating themselves from the rest of the competition when it comes to their capacity to play a full four quarters at full pelt.

Tayla Fraser is the answer

Without the services of Maddy Proud and Nat Haythornthwaite struggling to find her way in attack for the Swifts youngster Tayla Fraser was gifted the opportunity to ply her trade and did not skip a beat. The Swifts have been somewhat stagnant in attack since Proud has been sidelined and with Haythornthwaite not having the desired impact they needed a change. In comes Fraser, with the zippy midcourter proving that she can quite easily step up to the plate and provide some real energy in the attacking third with her preliminary work and fast footwork. A real energiser bunny and smooth mover, Fraser lifted the entire Swifts attacking unit connecting seamlessly with Sam Wallace and Helen Housby. She also impressed with her defensive capabilities to snatch an intercept through the midcourt and apply strong hands over pressure.

Thunderbirds have forgotten how to win

It was a disappointing round if you were an Adelaide Thunderbirds fan with the Tbirds holding the lead for majority of their respective match against Sunshine Coast Lightning, but falling short by the narrowest of margins. It was by far the most consistent and comprehensive performance by the Thunderbirds to date as the attacking end spearheaded by Georgie Horjus fired on all cylinders. The defensive end was also humming as Shamera Sterling and Matilda Garrett starred down back with their ball winning capabilities on full display. In fact the duo combined for nine gains and six intercepts highlighting their ability to cleanly impact the play. With a more settled line-up the Thunderbirds were able to beat the Lightning at their own game but they will be ruing their missed chances with the game slipping through their fingers in the dying seconds of the game.

Firebirds have cracked under the expectations

Touted as serious top four contenders, the Firebirds have fallen into the category of pretenders so far this season. Under the guidance of new head coach Megan Anderson the Firebirds have struggled to put out a consistent four quarter performance and this round was no different. Blowing the Vixens away in the opening term with some impressive defensive work from Tara Hinchliffe and Kim Jenner the Firebirds fell away as the game went on with their composure flying out the window and decision making poor. The constant tinkering allowed the Vixens to exploit the new connections as Jemma Mi Mi, Lara Dunkley and Kim Ravaillion all rotated through the midcourt while Hinchliffe also tried her hand at wing defence to replace Gabi Simpson. Despite the copious changes the Firebirds were unable to wrestle back the momentum and were hurt by costly turnovers and ill-placed passes especially in the attacking third as Romelda Aiken, Gretel Bueta and Tippah Dwan still look to find that balance.

Photo credit: Suncorp Super Netball