Lightning storm past Mavericks to confirm major semi-final

Match report |

Loughborough Lightning

79

London Mavericks

58

Shadine Van Der Merwe passing the netball to another player

Loughborough Lightning delivered a commanding performance on Friday night, powering past London Mavericks 79-58 to confirm a top two spot in the NSL table.

Lightning came out firing, capitalising on an early turnover to dominate the opening quarter 23-12. Their momentum continued into the second, with Sammy Wallace-Joseph thrilling the crowd with slick one-handed takes and clinical finishing, supported by pinpoint feeds from Nat Panagarry and Hannah Joseph. 

The second half saw Ella Clark return to court, sinking super shots with ease, while Jodie Gibson injected defensive energy with crucial turnovers. Bella Baylis added flair in the final quarter, lifting the crowd with her impact in mid-court. 

Wallace-Joseph claimed Fans' Long Tall Sally Player of the Match with 24 goals, while Shadine van der Merwe earned the Kissimmee Experience Player of the Match for her defensive dominance. 

Lightning now turn their focus to their final away game against Birmingham Panthers on Saturday 14th June where they will confirm final league placings ahead of their major semi-final.