Worldwide commitments over the winter months have interrupted pre-season preparations and that was a standard message from coaches as some groups coped higher than others on the massive stage.
In entrance of packed stands at one of many UK’s largest indoor arenas, Birmingham Panthers and Manchester Thunder each misplaced three from three.
“It has been a troublesome day,” mentioned Thunder coach Karen Greig, whose aspect misplaced their three video games closely to make an early exit.
Thunder will face NSL champions Pulse within the league’s opening match, with greater than 5,000 tickets offered for that Copper Field encounter.
Greig has introduced England purpose shooter El Cardwell again to England after a profitable stint in Australia whereas Thunder even have fellow Roses star Nat Metcalf again after she missed final season when pregnant and taking care of child son Miller.
However it was to no avail on the Tremendous Cup.
“Right now was about us understanding the place we have been truly at,” Greig mentioned.
“The performances and the connections on the courtroom undoubtedly highlighted that.
“The standard that we have in our group is simple and it is about us now ensuring we get everybody on the identical web page and linked.”
There was no such downside for Lightning whereas Pulse took comfort from being a whisker away from one other main title.
As Pulse coach Sam Hen mentioned: “I am not too fearful. I am disenchanted as a result of I like successful the whole lot accessible however I feel we take a whole lot of positives from the day. It is a good rivalry to proceed with.”
