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Funny Fowler a shooting star for Fever

3 minute read

West Coast Fever will start as underdogs in Sunday's grand final against Melbourne Vixens, but the hot form of Jhaniele Fowler has given them a winning hope.

JHANIELE FOWLER-Reid of Jamaica competes during the Netball match between Australia and Jamaica of the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games at Gold Coast Convention Centre in the Gold Coast, Australia.
JHANIELE FOWLER-Reid of Jamaica competes during the Netball match between Australia and Jamaica of the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games at Gold Coast Convention Centre in the Gold Coast, Australia. Picture: Albert Perez/Getty Images

West Coast Fever goal attack Alice Teague-Neeld has no doubt Jhaniele Fowler is the best shooter in world netball and the Jamaican's red-hot form is reason for optimism.

The Fever are looking to win their first Super Netball title when they take on the Melbourne Vixens in Sunday's grand final in Brisbane.

The Vixens are warm favourites after losing just two games on the way to the minor premiership.

But the Fever are quietly confident of causing an upset, especially given Fowler's form all season.

Fowler has scored a league-record 910 goals this campaign, with a season-best haul of 70 in the round-12 win over NSW Swifts.

"I would say 'J' is the best shooter in the world," Teague-Neeld said.

"She's a massive powerhouse and I'm just so thankful she's on my team.

"To have 'J' back there instils a lot of confidence in us feeding it to her.

"She's a very calm player and also brings a bit of humour, which relaxes you.

"She's not the loudest person in the team meetings. But whenever she does make a little sly joke or comment, it really relaxes the room."

Teague-Neeld started her career at Vixens in 2014 before moving to Collingwood for a two-year stint at the end of 2016.

The 24-year-old, who is the daughter of former Melbourne Demons coach Mark Neeld, has spent the past two seasons at Fever, where she battled initially to hold her spot.

The introduction of the two-point shot this season has worked in Teague-Neeld's favour and her on-court chemistry with Fowler has continued to blossom.

"I know there's been a lot of comments around the two-point shots, some are for it and some are against it," Teague-Neeld said.

"But I've really enjoyed it and embraced it for what it is.

"It has brought the goal attack into the game a little bit more. I really enjoy the challenge. I personally do like it."

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