SPARKS SET TO FLY BETWEEN FIRE & FLAMES

Gather the tinder and wood, rub some sticks together and create a spark because we’re back at the Fire Pit tomorrow night, starting off a 4 game home stretch. Townsville’s last appearance at the venue was against Adelaide almost a month ago and that dramatic comeback victory over the Lightning, was just the Fire’s second outing in front of the orange army.

Co-captain Courtney Woods has sensed an extra pep in the players steps at training, knowing they’ll run out on their home floor for what’s left 2024.

“Its really nice to be back there. We’ve played 6 out of the first 8 games away which is a lot so we’re really excited to play back at the Entertainment Centre where the atmosphere is amazing, and also just playing in front of our fans and connecting with them.”

First up is Sydney, the only team Townsville hasn’t faced. But the sides are somewhat familiar with one another after helping each other prepare for their respective campaigns. Woods is expecting a similar match up albeit with more to play for this time around.

“Yeah so we played them in 2 pre-season games, that was a while ago but from when we played them we know they’re a very tough. They kind of play similar to us in terms of a lot of ball screens and a lot of discipline on the offensive end.”

Townsville toiled hard against the unbeaten league leaders last round and took plenty of positives away from a narrow defeat to the Spirit, coach Shannon Seebohm knows the hosts have another difficult challenge incoming.

“I think outside of Bendigo they’re probably the most in form team right now and obviously they’ve got 3 wins in a row, so they’ll be feeling confident.”

He knows limiting Mikaela Ruef’s rebounding will be crucial given the forward dominated the glass at both ends in her time with Townsville. Meanwhile veteran Cayla George is averaging 11 boards and 16 points per game while Shanice Swain is the league’s second highest scorer.

“Cayla George is having a great season so she’s someone that we need to be aware of and Shanice Swain is also having a really good season. She’s averaging 19 points per game and shooting the 3 point shot really well so we’re going to have to do a great job of guarding her as well.”

Fire supporters already out of town enjoying festive holidays can catch the action on ESPN and the 9 NOW App or follows the club’s social media for score updates.

For fans in town, head to the game and make plenty of noise! Tip off is at 7pm, tickets are available here.