There was a lot to like about the Bond Bull Sharks first outing against Darling Downs Panthers in Round 1. Attention now turns to a double-round week that sees Bond do battle with the Moreton Bay City Pulse and Redlands City Eagles in the space of just four days.
Ruby Head Coach, Gavin Clarke, picks apart what promises to be a busy bit of Bull Sharking!
Bond Bull Sharks v Moreton Bay City Pulse
4.00pm Sunday 17 May, Nissan Arena
The opposition
This weekend sees the Bond Ruby team return to Nissan Arena to take on the Moreton Bay City Pulse. We expect the Pulse to bounce back strongly after their loss to Redlands last weekend. They have some strong defenders and capable two-point shooters, making them a well-rounded and dangerous side.
The challenge
We will need to be strong on our holds and decisive in our movements and ball placement in the shooting end. Defensively, applying consistent hands-over pressure in the circle will be crucial to limiting their scoring opportunities.
Shuffling the magnets
The coaching staff were really pleased with our opening-round win over the Panthers in Toowoomba, as travel and home-court advantage can be difficult to manage. The team implemented the game plan with good consistency for this stage of the season and made some strong in-game adjustments, particularly during the super shot period when the Panthers were chasing the game.
Ones to watch
Elka Macauley had a strong game at centre, while Captain Abby Boland delivered a Player of the Match performance at goal shooter. Brook Lacey also impressed with her strong first-ball contesting against the Panthers.
The focus
Our focus is on learning from each challenge and continuing to develop and execute our game plan. Controlling possession, being proactive, and maintaining speed and precision with our ball movement into the shooting circle will be key. Defensively, we need to remain clean and apply consistent pressure.
Final word
We are looking forward to a complete team performance across the court. Once again, we relish the challenge ahead and will take the court with confidence, energy, and a smile on our faces as we represent the University.
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Bond Bull Sharks v Redlands Coast Eagles
8.00pm Wednesday, 20 May 2026, Nissan Arena
The opposition
Round three sees us facing a quick three day turn around before we are back at Nissan Arena to take on the Redlands Coast Eagles. In round 1 the Eagles had a commanding win over our Round 2 opponent, so the team is in for a highly challenging game.
The challenge
We'll need to be dynamic and fluid in our attacking end on Wednesday night so as to ensure we control the rhythm and tempo of the game. Defensively, being ball side and attacking the line of the ball will be crucial to stop the flow of ball to their shooters; particularly in the super shot periods of the game.
Shuffling the magnets
The team had a change to our regular routine this week with a recovery session at the incredible Bond HPC followed by a short targeted training run ensuring we are ready to execute on Wednesday evening.
Ones to watch
The depth of our team will be tested this game with the short turnaround, but we are confident our 11 players can get the job done.
The focus
Wednesday night games at Nissan Arena means players are heading straight from work or university studies to play so having a clear mind focusing on the task will be paramount. Travel time to games can be a bonus though and we will be looking to the team to lock in.
Final word
'Execute with relentless precision and confidence' are our key words for this game. Bring on Wednesday evening.