The Adelaide Thunderbirds have etched their names into netball history by claiming a record third Super Netball premiership, overwhelming the Melbourne Vixens with a commanding 61-40 victory in the grand final at a sold-out John Cain Arena on Saturday night.
Record-Breaking Victory
Adelaide, who suffered just one loss throughout the season, shattered the Vixens' title defence to become the first club to win three championships since the league's inception in 2017. The Thunderbirds now stand alone as the most successful team in Super Netball history, ahead of two-time premiers Melbourne Vixens, NSW Swifts, and Sunshine Coast Lightning.
The 21-goal margin set a new record for the largest grand final win, surpassing the previous benchmark of 17 goals set by the Lightning in 2017 and the Swifts in 2019.
Dominant Second Quarter
The Thunderbirds were simply a class above the Vixens, unleashing a devastating 21-goal to eight blitz in the second quarter that effectively decided the contest. By halftime, Adelaide had surged to a 32-20 lead, fueled by a five-goal run early in the period after a poor pass from Vixens attacker Kiera Austin was intercepted by Thunderbirds defender Latanya Wilson.
Wilson, the Jamaican star, was named player of the match for her defensive masterclass alongside captain Shamera Sterling-Humphrey. The pair neutralized the Vixens' attacking threats, limiting Austin to 15 goals from 20 attempts and Sophie Garbin to 16 from 18.
Van der Berg Shines
South African shooter Elmere van der Berg was instrumental in her maiden grand final appearance, scoring 51 goals from 52 attempts. She joined the league this season and proved a formidable force under the post.
Commonwealth Games-bound midcourter Georgie Horjus also excelled, leading the game with 27 feeds and 20 centre pass receives, while converting all six of her own shooting attempts.
Vixens' Disappointment
The Vixens fell short in their bid to secure back-to-back titles for the first time in club history. This defeat marked their second grand final loss to the Thunderbirds in three consecutive appearances, echoing the 2024 result. Melbourne trailed 45-29 at the final break and could not overcome the deficit against the Super Netball juggernauts.
In the second quarter alone, the Vixens conceded 19 penalties to the Thunderbirds' eight and converted only four goals from centre pass. Despite home-court advantage after Netball Australia sold the rights for the decider, the Vixens were outplayed by a disciplined Adelaide side backed by a boisterous travelling contingent.
The crowd of 10,040 was the highest-ever Super Netball attendance at John Cain Arena, underscoring the growing popularity of the sport.
