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Wallam Watch: Donnell Wallam notches 40 goals for Firebirds in Queensland Cup loss to Lightning

Carly LadenHarvey-Waroona Reporter
Donnell Wallam scored 40 goals for the Firebirds but it wasn’t enough for them to take the win against Queensland rivals Sunshine Coast Lightning.
Camera IconDonnell Wallam scored 40 goals for the Firebirds but it wasn’t enough for them to take the win against Queensland rivals Sunshine Coast Lightning. Credit: Albert Perez/Getty Images

Despite the Queensland Firebirds falling short against Sunshine Coast Lightning in a state showdown to claim the inaugural Queensland Cup, Harvey’s Donnell Wallam has continued to shoot for the stars.

The Firebirds and the Lightning went head to head at Nissan Arena during the second round of the 2023 Suncorp Super Netball season on Saturday.

A few missed shots and strong pressure from Lightning defenders saw the Firebirds start behind the eight-ball, struggling to score on their turned-over ball during the first half.

BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 25: Donnell Wallam of the Firebirds handles the ball during the round two Super Netball match between the Queensland Firebirds and the Sunshine Coast Lightning at Nissan Arena, on March 25, 2023, in Brisbane, Australia. (Photo by Albert Perez/Getty Images)
Camera IconDonnell Wallam makes a great grab in the match against the Lightning. Credit: Albert Perez/Getty Images

A supershot from Wallam during the Power Five in the second term was crucial for the Firebirds, but the Lightning proved too strong and maintained their domination to lead 39-21 at half-time.

The Firebirds lifted their intensity and opened the second half strongly, as they clawed back the margin, reducing it to 15.

While the Firebirds outscored the Lightning throughout the second half, it was not enough to secure the win, with the Lightning claiming the inaugural Queensland Cup 65-55.

BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 25: Donnell Wallam of the Firebirds competes for the ball under pressure from Karla Pretorius of the Lightning during the round two Super Netball match between the Queensland Firebirds and the Sunshine Coast Lightning at Nissan Arena, on March 25, 2023, in Brisbane, Australia. (Photo by Albert Perez/Getty Images)
Camera IconThe Firebirds’ Donnell Wallam battles Lightning’s Karla Pretorius for possession. Credit: Albert Perez/Getty Images

Wallam finished the match with 40 goals from 47 attempts, a super shot, two goal assists, eight rebounds, three feeds and an intercept.

The Firebirds will take on the NSW Swifts at the Ken Rosewall Arena on Saturday April 1.

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