In a fiercely contested encounter between two of the league’s leading sides, Lightning showed resilience throughout and forced an additional 10 minutes thanks to a clutch Amex Super Shot from Ella Clark at the end of regulation time. However, Pulse edged ahead in extra-time and held on to secure the win.
Despite the result, Lightning produced a determined display and remain top of the table after collecting a valuable losing bonus point.
Ella Clark stepped up impressively in attack, finishing with 37 goals from 39 attempts inside the one-point zone. Her composure under pressure proved crucial, none more so than with the late Super Shot that kept Lightning alive and capped an influential individual performance.
With Samantha Wallace-Joseph unavailable, Berri Neil and Clark led a new-look attacking partnership against an aggressive Pulse defence. The duo were tested throughout by Funmi Fadoju, who registered 10 deflections in an intense battle inside the circle.
Across the court, Gracie Smith drove Lightning through the midcourt with energy and intent, recording nine deflections and 43 feeds in another tireless performance.
At the defensive end, Celena Appleby-Prince continued her impressive recent form with another composed showing, helping Lightning remain firmly in contention throughout a high-quality contest.
Pulse were inspired by a standout display from Liv Tchine, whose return to the starting seven saw her convert 14 Amex Super Shots while also collecting eight rebounds to earn the Experience Kissimmee Player of the Match award.
Although Lightning’s perfect record came to an end, the performance demonstrated the squad’s depth and fight as they pushed another title contender all the way in one of the season’s most entertaining encounters.