Match Report | NIC Leeds Rhinos 43 Birmingham Panthers 67

By Tyler-Sue Chapman

NIC Leeds Rhinos suffered a heavy defeat 43-67 against Birmingham Panthers to round off the 2026 Netball Super League season. 

NIC Leeds Rhinos slotted away the first goal of the game and thanks to an intercept from Phoebe Maslen the score was quickly 2-0. Panthers responded early and brought the game level. It was the Rhinos who gained momentum and held a three point advantage after seven minutes of play. The resilient Birmingham Panthers re-levelled the game at 11 all as the Amex super shot buzzer sounded. Visitors Panthers utilised the super shot five minute period and denied the Rhinos any points while sinking six to take a six point advantage at the first break 11-17.

Strong defensive efforts from the visitors saw them continue to extend their lead into the start of the second quarter. Reed and Jones combined well inside the circle to put another point on the board but it was the visitors who continued to push ahead which pushed the Rhinos to use their tactical timeout as they reached a ten goal difference 14-24. Marlene Lange entered the game at goal keeper after the pause in play. A defensive turnover for the Rhinos and quick through court ball speed saw the Rhinos slot another through the net but the visitors responded. Maslen and Visser worked together but it was the Visitors who continued to push ahead, they took a 13 point advantage into half time, 18-31.

Palmer made a change to her attacking unit with Simone Gordon picking up the goal shooter bib and captain Reed moved to goal attack. Jones returned to the court at goal shooter after a few minutes of play. Despite efforts through the court from the Rhinos the visitors continued to pull away. Two super shots from Jones and one from Reed got the crowd chanting and reduced the deficit. Defensive and attacking efforts from the Rhinos were rewarded however the visitors held onto the lead reaching a 15 goal advantage entering the final break 32-47.

Niamh Kilgallen entered the game at wing defence for the final quarter. The deficit remained in the teens as the clock ticked down on the season. Yomi Wilson returned to the goal keeper position with 10 minutes on the clock. Birmingham  Panthers took the three points with a 43-67 win to finish off the season. 

Thank you to all of our players, staff, volunteers, sponsors and of course our fabulous fans who have supported us throughout the season. What a ride it’s been, see you all next year.