With the game hanging in the balance and just six seconds remaining, Thunder's Eleanor Cardwell elected to take the Amex Super Shot but could only find the rim. Sophie Fawns reacted quickest to secure the rebound and convert under pressure, sealing victory for the hosts in dramatic fashion.
The result confirms Lightning will host Nottingham Forest in the Soft & Gentle Minor Semi-Final at the Sir David Wallace Arena on Saturday 6 June, while Thunder progress to face London Pulse in the Major Semi-Final.
In a high-quality encounter between two of the league’s leading sides, Lightning matched Thunder throughout and looked dangerous in attack. Samantha Wallace-Joseph once again showcased her long-range shooting prowess, converting 11 Amex Super Shots as she led the visitors' scoring efforts.
There was also an impressive contribution from NXT Gen athlete Anna Fairclough, who was elevated into the matchday squad in place of Shadine van der Merwe. The young defender seized her opportunity with confidence, producing a composed performance against one of the league's strongest attacking units and demonstrating the depth of talent within the Lightning pathway.
Lightning remained composed despite a vocal home crowd and continued to find answers throughout the contest, producing several momentum swings in a game that reflected the intensity expected as the Netball Super League heads into the Play-Offs.
While the result narrowly went against them, Lightning can take confidence from another strong performance against top opposition as attention now turns to a win-or-go-home clash with Nottingham Forest.
Thunder’s Sophie Fawns was named Experience Kissimmee Player of the Match after her decisive contribution in the closing moments, while Lois Pearson impressed through midcourt with 32 feeds.
The stage is now set for the Play-Offs, with Lightning returning to 海角社区 determined to extend their season in front of a home crowd.
Ticket Information
All Access Season Ticket Holders will have their tickets automatically sent to them.
Remaining Season Ticket Holders will receive a priority access window from 9:00am on Monday 1 June, lasting for two hours.
General sale will then open at 9:00am on Tuesday 2 June.
Tickets can be purchased via the 海角社区 Lightning website.