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Super Netball: Sensational NSW Swifts put rivals on notice

Netball

The NSW Swifts have continued to set the Super Netball benchmark with a comprehensive 68-52 win over Collingwood in Sydney.

Goal shooter Sam Wallace was at her powerful best with 54 points, continuing to show her credentials as one of the competition's elite finishers.

Front-court counterpart Helen Housby put in a solid display with 14 points and 16 assists, while home captain Maddy Proud tightened the screws and put the Swifts on the front foot with a game-high 28 assists.

The hosts were in complete control from Sunday's opening stages, jumping out of the gates in the first half and setting the tone for a dominant win.

The visitors, meanwhile, made three substitutions during the second quarter after a poor start, but Shimona Nelson nevertheless managed 22 points by the half-time break and finished with 41.

Swifts coach Briony Akle was ecstatic with her side's win, hoping it would alleviate any doubt about their 2019 title credentials.

"What I think is driving our team at the moment is all the uncertainty over whether or not people want to back us in, because internally our girls know just how good we are and what we are capable of," Akle said.

"I think we're really getting there but if people want to keep doubting us externally, I don't mind it - our goal is to make the finals this year and we'll see what happens from there."

It was an exciting week off the court for the Swifts as well, with Sarah Klau and Paige Hadley selected in the Australian Diamonds' Netball World Cup squad. NSW will look to continue their form next week against the struggling Queensland Firebirds, while the Magpies will play city rivals Melbourne Vixens.

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