‘That’s a lie’: Firebirds coach called out, Vixens move to fix Grand Final ‘misfire’

Two teams are yet to record a win after three rounds of the Super Netball season and one coach has been called out for a white “lie”.

Two teams are winless heading into the fourth round of Super Netball, but one might feel more worried than the other.

The Giants have been perennial finalists in recent seasons but have started their campaign with losses to the Lightning, Vixens and Fever to be 0-3.

The Queensland Firebirds are also without a win and after they showed better signs in Round 3, new head coach Bec Bulley insists she’s not feeling the pressure to get the wins on the board.

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In the absence of star shooter Gretel Bueta (pregnant) and with the sudden departure of assistant coach Sara Francis-Bayman in the pre-season, it’s looking like it could be a long season for the Firebirds.

Speaking on Fox Netball’s Centre Circle, Cath Cox said Bulley’s optimism was unfounded.

“That’s a lie … she’s feeling the pressure,” Cox said.

“She’s put it out there, probably to reassure herself, her team, the fans of Queensland – great. That’s what you’d expect most coaches to do.

“But she has to be feeling the pressure, she can’t not be.”

Bec Bulley’s Firebirds are winless after three games. (Photo by May Bailey/Getty Images)

Why there’s still hope for 0-3 Giants

The Giants are without a win heading into Round 4, where they come up against arguably the most improved team in Super Netball, the Adelaide Thunderbirds.

But despite being reliant on Super Shots, they’ve held their own in close losses to the Melbourne Vixens and West Coast Fever, last year’s grand finalists.

Cox believes the Giants can get it together to climb up the ladder, and history is on their side.

“In 2018 the Sunshine Coast Lightning started their season with three losses in a row and then went on to win a premiership that same year,” Cox told news.com.au at the launch of Woolworths’ Pick Fresh Play Fresh netball grants. A share of $100,000 will be awarded, with a $20,000 People’s Choice grant up for grabs for the first time.

Cath Cox supporting Woolworths' NetSetGO program for the Pick Fresh Play Fresh Netball Grants. Photo: Supplied.

“I think the Giants are in a much better position than the Firebirds in that they’ve had a lot of close games and they’ve challenged some of the big teams,” she said.

“They’ve played the Vixens and the Fever and they were both close games.

“You can take a lot out of that and that they’re performing against the best teams in the competition. Their first win is not far way.”

There’s still hope for the Giants if they turn things around soon. (Photo by Matt King/Getty Images)

Vixens shooter addressing Grand Final ‘misfire’

The Melbourne Vixens have been back to their clinical best in 2023, with their only blip coming in a one-point Round 1 loss to the Fever in the Grand Final rematch.

They’ve added another string to their bow, with goal shooter Mwai Kumwenda attempting — and nailing — significantly more Super Shots.

Kumwenda shot 8/36 two-pointers last year, but she’s already sunk 7/11 just three rounds into the season.

Kumwenda shooting more Super Shots could be the secret weapon the Vixens need to take the pressure off goal attack Kiera Austin and if they are to beat the Fever.

“She’s got better range in the circle, that’s been one of the standouts,” ex-Diamonds captain Annie Sargeant said on Centre Circle.

“I love that she’s turning and shooting and has the confidence in those moments. I think it’s been a definite instruction in the training environment and at least it’s translating to the court and that’s a great thing.

Mwai Kumwenda is shooting far more Super Shots. (Photo by Kelly Defina/Getty Images)

“The misfit and misfire between the Vixens shooters in the Grand Final seemed to take its toll on the result. (There was) a little bit of a disconnect. I think that’s one of the areas we’ve seen a lot of growth.

“They have a much better awareness of each other in the circle. Mwai Kumwenda is aware of Kiera’s entry points and the fact Kiera likes to be a little deceptive and lead out. They integrate that a lot better.”

Round 4’s matches are spread over three days over the Easter long weekend, culminating in the undefeated Fever taking on the Swifts on Easter Monday.

Super Netball Round 4 (all times AEST)

Melbourne Vixens vs Sunshine Coast Lightning — Saturday 7pm

Collingwood vs Queensland Firebirds — Sunday 2pm

Adelaide Thunderbirds vs Giants — Sunday 4pm

NSW Swifts vs West Coast Fever — Monday 1pm