Sunshine Coast Lightning defeat NSW Swifts 69-62 for second straight Super Netball victory

The Sunshine Coast Lightning's resurrection as a Super Netball premiership force has gained momentum with a 69-62 win over defending champions NSW Swifts at Sydney's Ken Rosewall Arena. 

After stumbling in the opening two rounds, the Lightning are once again roaring after consecutive victories against the previous two champions.

They defeated Melbourne Vixens last week.

With Steph Wood (seven goals, one super shot) uncharacteristically quiet on Saturday, the Lightning needed spark from elsewhere.

They found it from goal shooter Cara Koenen (48 goals at 98 per cent), defender Tara Hinchliffe and teenager Reilley Batcheldor, who produced a stunning nine-minute third-term blitz to put her side into the competition top four.

«It was a bit ugly at times from us,» Koenen said.

«We hadn't won two consecutive games yet so this was a crucial one for us.»

Swifts captain Maddy Proud set aside the disappointment of being overlooked for the Diamonds squad to notch a game-high 57 feeds.

A brave performance from defender Sarah Klau aside, the Swifts could not win enough ball in the second half to supply shooters Helen Housby (26 goals, five super shots) and Sophie Fawns (20 goals, one super shot).

AAP