Athlete’s goal to deliver Sydney a Super Netball grand final
Netballer Paige Hadley says the Swifts are ready to end a losing run which cost them the minor premiership when they travel north for a historic clash.
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It would normally strike fear in a player but Diamonds midcourter Paige Hadley says the NSW Swifts are relishing the challenge of facing a team they have yet to beat this season.
She is also predicting their semi-finals match against Sunshine Coast Lightning “will be a cracker.”
The Swifts and Lightning clash on Saturday in the major semi of Super Netball on the Sunshine Coast with a major incentive on the line — the right to host the 2019 season decider.
While the Swifts are playing in their first ever Super Netball finals series, Lightning are seasoned professionals after winning the crowns in both 2017 and 2018.
“We haven’t beaten them. We have lost by two goals both times this year,’’ Hadley said.
“It’s very motivating to know that by beating them we can bring the grand final to Sydney,
“In the big scheme of things it’s just one goal or a turnover, an intercept her or there.
“Something quite small that can make the difference.
“No matter what the game will be a cracker.’’
The winner of the major semi-final will advance directly to the grand final.
The loser will play the winner of Sunday’s elimination semi between the Melbourne Vixens and Collingwood Magpies.
Hadley was part of the Diamonds recent World Cup campaign in the UK where the Australians were beaten by New Zealand for the world crown.
The Swifts veteran says she took a few weeks to get over the tiredness of playing and travelling with the Diamonds on her return to Super Netball last month.