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Mavericks stun Swifts in Super Netball

Shimona Jok and Gabrielle Sinclair of the Mavericks. Kelly Defina/Getty Images

The Melbourne Mavericks have notched the first home win in the expansion side's history, defeating the NSW Swifts 64-58 at John Cain Arena.

A commanding 23-12 third term on the back of a first-half arm wrestle paved the way for the first-year Mavericks' impressive victory over last season's grand finalists on Sunday.

The Mavs achieved the breakthrough triumph without English shooter Eleanor Cardwell after quarter-time, after the star shooter sustained a thigh injury.

Kim Jenner and Amy Parmenter piloted a strong backcourt, which left the Swifts gasping - and ultimately succumbing to their second successive defeat.

"Absolutely amazing," said goal defence Jenner, who racked up 10 deflections and two intercepts.

"Our crowd is incredible. We love playing here.

"We're so glad we got the win for them at home.

"We're such a competitive group. We're going for finals. Every win is amazing."

The Mavs' midcourt's defensive pressure conjured numerous important gains against their error-prone Swifts counterparts to give the hosts the early initiative.

The Mavericks moved ahead 30-23 before the Swifts responded with their best patch of the afternoon, with Helen Housby drilling three super shots to spearhead an 8-0 finish to the half which put the visitors in front.

But the home side ripped back the momentum with their dominant third quarter, hitting 21 of 22 shots against a NSW side which was being snowed under by penalties.

Mavericks shooters Shimona Jok and Gabrielle Sinclair were unstoppable in the circle, feasting on the dominance of midcourters Tayla Fraser and Molly Jovic, while Jenner continued to excel on the last line.

The Swifts rallied in the fourth term, with Housby firing away from outside, but they were unable to make significant inroads thanks chiefly to Jenner and Parmenter.