Collingwood scored with the final play of the game to pinch a dramatic 55-54 win over the NSW Swifts in their round six Super Netball clash at Sydney Olympic Park Sports Centre.
With the scores locked at 54-54 and less than 10 seconds remaining, Magpies goal shooter - and former Swift - Caitlin Thwaites missed a regulation shot but was awarded possession by the umpire and converted her second attempt.
It was a much-needed win for the star-studded Magpies, who had won just two of their opening five clashes, and particularly sweet after they lost by a goal last round.
"Being on the losing side of that last week, we ran those scenarios during the week at training and, in the final minute, apart from my missed shot and rebound, it went to plan," Thwaites said.
Magpies coach Kristy Keppich-Birrell said it was encouraging for her side to see work at training pay off on game-day.
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"This week they felt really comfortable, knowing there were seconds to go, it was even and we needed to take a shot in our perfect time space that we've designated," she said.
Very little separated the teams all game. Collingwood's biggest lead came early in the opening quarter before the Swifts reduced the deficit to three at the first break.
The home side took the lead in the second quarter but the Magpies scored three of the last four goals of the half to draw the game level at 27-27.
Magpies goalkeeper Sharni Layton, another former Swift, took a heavy fall late in the second quarter but returned with strapping on her right knee.
Collingwood began to find space in the the third quarter, driven through the mid-court by captain Madi Robinson and Kim Ravaillion. Spurred by a nine-goal effort by goal attack Cody Lange they snatched a 43-39 lead.
The Swifts have been guilty of falling away in final quarters this season but locked the game at 45-45 with 10 minutes remaining.
Collingwood got out by 52-49 before the Swifts scored the next three to set up a tight finish.
"My big mantra is around making sure we're better than we were last round and I thought we showed some really good growth again today," Swifts coach Rob Wright said.
"Obviously no one wants to lose by one.
"But I was really pleased with our composure and actually being able to almost go and pinch that one. It was exciting."
