Despite flashes of brilliance and a determined effort, Lightning lacked fluency across the four quarters and struggled to settle into their usual rhythm. The result sees London Pulse secure the top spot, setting up a high-stakes semi-final clash between the two sides this weekend.
Panthers took control in the second quarter and managed the contest well from there, led by a clinical 42-goal performance from Antonia Mitchell. The young shooter, who joined Panthers following the injury to Sigi Burger, previously impressed in Lightning’s NXT Gen programme and has seized her opportunity at NSL level. Her confident showing against her former club was key to the upset.
Lightning showed plenty of grit and individual impact. Beth Cobden was a constant threat defensively, Bella Baylis impressed on her first start of the season, and Shadine van der Merwe’s key tip in the third quarter allowed Berri Neil to keep the scoreboard moving. Jodie Gibson added intensity off the bench and combined late on with Ella Clark.
There’s no doubting Lightning’s fight, but they’ll know a sharper, more cohesive performance will be needed to overcome Pulse in the major semi-final. With big-game experience across the squad, focus now turns to bouncing back when it matters most.
Purchase tickets for Lightning's major semi-final away at London Pulse here.