The NSW Derby has become one of the most highly anticipated contests on the Suncorp Super Netball calendar and in front of a crowd of 8,726, the Swifts proved too strong for the Giants, taking the win 63-56.
Trading goals throughout the first period, some mistakes by the Giants and strong plays by the Swifts, saw them up by two points at the first break.
Fighting back, the Giants surged ahead to be ahead 30-28 at the mid-game break.
However Swifts coach Briony Akle halftime talk seemed to do the trick as good turnover work and a stepping call against Giants skipper Kim Green, allowed the Swifts to level the score.
Green was also well marked by NSW Swifts replacement player Sophie Halpin, who was called into the team along with Tayla Fraser after injuries to Natalie Haythornthwaite and Kate Eddy.
Both sides struggled with mistakes in the third quarter before the Swifts wrested back control of the game.
While the Giants fought to keep themselves within two-points at the third break, the final quarter saw them miss some crucial opportunities which allowed the Swifts to surge ahead and ultimately take the points.
Swift action topples Giants
The NSW Swifts got their season off to a good start with a win over their hometown rivals Giants Netball.Photo: NARELLE SPANGHER
PLENTY of passion was on display when the NSW Swifts and Giants Netball went head to head for the Carole Sykes Memorial Trophy in the first round of the national netball competition at Qudos Banks Arena on Sunday afternoon.
