Wrap up
Week 12 saw Adelaide Rush fighting to extend their lead in the premiership race, facing Brisbane Lightning at home. Meanwhile, Perth Inferno took on Melbourne Ducks in exhibition matchups, using the weekend to sharpen their systems ahead of finals.
While Saturday’s games were more decisive, Sunday’s matchups tightened, proving teams are adjusting and pushing each other in preparation for the crucial weeks ahead.
Results
Saturday
Adelaide Rush 4-3 Brisbane Lightning Rush controlled possession, outshooting Lightning 27-18, with goals coming from a diverse range of players for both theams this is important heading into finals.
Perth Inferno 5-0 Melbourne Ducks (Exhibition) Inferno dominated Ducks, outshooting them 36-22.
Sunday
Brisbane Lightning 4-3 Adelaide Rush. A reversal of fortunes saw Lightning edge out Rush in a tight contest. Despite Rush winning the shot count again at 33-26.
Perth Inferno 3-2 Melbourne Ducks (Exhibition) On Sunday, the Ducks gave Inferno a tougher challenge, narrowing the margin but still falling short. Inferno outshot the Ducks 42-19.
Key Takeaways
Rush vs Lightning: Both teams relied on contributions from a broad range of players rather than their top scorers, which will be crucial heading into the finals. Depth across the lineup becomes even more valuable when playoff intensity kicks in and the pressure of finals hockey that hits each player differently.
Perth Inferno’s Weekend: Facing Ducks in exhibition games gave Inferno a valuable chance to refine their systems and plays, which can be vital preparation with game scenario pressure that doesn’t impact the standings.
Final round of the regulation season will be played next weekend on the 15th and 16th Feb. The Sydney Sirens will travel to O’Brien Ice House to play Melbourne Ice, and Perth Inferno will travel to Boondall Ice World to play the Brisbane Lightning.
