A much improved season for the Fever

While not playing finals netball has been a regular occurrence for the West Coast Fever in recent years, this season has seen the team improve significantly.

The addition of former Australian Diamonds coach and veteran shooter Catherine Cox has helped the Fever to be more the competitive in most games, along with also winning against top teams.

Fever host the Central Pulse in Perth on Sunday and it shapes as an opportunity to finish this season on a high by defeating a New Zealand based team.

“I’ve been pleased with how well we have gone against the Australian top sides, and now we just need to knuckle down and really focus on that win,” said Plummer.

“We know that (Caitlin) Thwaites is shooting well and they are likely to set up the zone, but we are prepared for that; it needs to be about our game.”

Central have had similar fortunes to the Fever this season, including a memorable one goal win over premiership contenders Adelaide Thunderbirds and Plummer isn’t underestimating them.

“They’ve got quite a few Silver Ferns Squad and team members in that side, it’s not a young junior side ‐ it’s quite a mature team.”

“Their back end between (Katrina) Grant and (Te Huinga Reo) Selby‐Rickett are really a strong force.”

Improved performances in 2012 have attracted increased attention from the Perth sporting public which has resulted in record crowds and membership.

Such support has been noted by the Fever playing group, especially the younger players who have had an opportunity this season to play before sell-out crowds at virtually every home game.

“We haven’t got the results we wanted this year, and for the fans to keep selling out games week after week ‐ I am extremely grateful,” said Plummer.

“This is a predominantly young group of players, so for them to have had the opportunity to learn on one of the sport’s biggest stages is great for their development going into next season.”

Channel 10 will show live coverage of the game from Perth’s Challenge Stadium from 2pm (AEST) on Sunday.

•  Have a view on this story? Send us your feedback!