London Pulse secured a 60‑56 win over Loughborough Lightning in the preliminary final, keeping their bid for consecutive Netball Super League titles alive. The victory followed a shock semi‑final loss to Manchester Thunder that sparked a player‑led inquest. Pulse’s comeback showed the squad’s resilience and set up a rematch in Manchester.

Director Sam Bird hailed the match as the team’s best effort of the campaign, praising the tenacity that broke Loughborough’s partnerships from the first quarter. Bird noted the leaders’ stand‑up after the previous defeat, saying they recognized the need for improvement and the squad’s response proved decisive to maintain their title ambition in the final.

Sophie Kelly delivered a standout performance, scoring 22 goals and securing two interceptions to earn player‑of‑the‑match honors. Her confidence echoed the team’s ambition, as she declared the squad is ready to win again and "cannot wait to get another gold medal". The win denies Thunder a sixth straight Grand Final appearance for this season title.

With the preliminary final over, London Pulse now faces Manchester Thunder in Manchester. The result shifts the balance of power, positioning Pulse as the team to beat while Thunder must regroup after missing the final. Fans will watch closely as the rivalry intensifies and the quest for back‑to‑back crowns continues in the season ahead now.