Fever score upset trans-Tasman netball win

The West Coast Fever have opened their 2015 trans-Tasman netball season with a major scalp, upsetting the Queensland Firebirds 57-50 at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre.

Touted as one of the big off-season improvers prior to the season after finishing ninth in 2014, the Fever toppled their more fancied rivals on Sunday on the back of a stunning third-quarter burst.

Fever goal-shooter Caitlin Bassett starred for the visitors, slotting 44 goals to top the match scoresheets.

The 193cm Bassett, a veteran of 46 Australian caps, landed her first 17 attempts on goal.

The match was neck-and-neck until an inspired run of five goals led the Fever to a 43-35 lead at the end of the third quarter.

They held their nerve in the final quarter for their first win over the Firebirds in Brisbane.

It was also the Fever's first victory on the road in ten matches.

Fever defenders April Letton and Kiwi import Erena Mikaene started strongly, giving the Firebirds little room to move as the visitors led 14-11 at the end of the first quarter.

The Perth-based outfit stretched their advantage to six points midway through the second period.

Much to the delight of the home crowd, the Firebirds bounced back to take a slender 26-25 lead at halftime, with the introduction of Amy Wild at goal attack by coach Roselee Jenkcke sparking the hosts' attack.

The Fever produced five goals straight at the end of the third quarter before holding on for a drought-breaking victory.

Despite carrying substantial strapping on her left knee, Firebirds skipper Laura Geitz moved well following off-season surgery.

Her battle with Bassett was one of the highlights of the contest.