Nottingham Forest seized its first Netball Super League play‑off berth with a 76‑65 win over Loughborough Lightning. The hosts, who lead the table, slipped to just their second defeat after Forest expanded a 39‑35 halftime advantage. Rolene Streutker poured in 42 goals, while goalkeeper Jayda Pechova dominated the crease and the crowd erupted for the milestone and the fans cheered.

Manchester Thunder also lifted the table, beating Leeds Rhinos 82‑66 to stay level on wins with Lightning but ahead on goal difference. Eleanor Cardwell and Sophie Fawns scored 33 and 19 goals for Thunder, while Paige Reed netted 24 for Rhinos. The result confirmed Thunder's title push and left Loughborough scrambling to recover as the season enters its final stretch.

Coach Chelsea Pitman called the victory emotional, noting it marks the club's second season and first playoff qualification. Forest's win keeps them four spots clear of the chasing pack, while Mavericks and Dragons see their playoff hopes dashed. The result underscores Forest's rapid rise and sets a benchmark for newly promoted sides in the Super League rest of the season.