The 26-goal win puts a four point buffer between Heat and the chasing Watters squad, and with just three regular season rounds left in the competition confirms Heat will again contest the play-offs in 2018.

Despite a “slow start” for the side, Heat head coach Helen Grogan was pleased with the “persistence” her squad showed.

In particular, Grogan praised the ever-consistent Claire Kowald, who was “near perfect” under the goal for Heat. The team coach also pinpointed Charli Carroll as a “crucial” aspect of Heat’s “flow” in the game.

“Carroll’s ability to turn the ball over was crucial, and we were able to capitalise on most of the turnovers,” she said. “From defence through to centre third, and to the shooting circle there was a flow to the game.”

Elsewhere at the Jack Stewart Netball Courts, Crossfire kept hold of third in the standings with a 57-41 win over Job Done, which also kept the defeated side a single point outside top four.

Fourth place on the ladder is currently Purnells’, after they defeated Fever 63-27. Purnells took advantage of the United club missing their regular shooters, including Amity Peterson who is obtaining her umpire C badge.

Finally, Sass kept pace with the top five teams as they defeated Fury, 62-38.

TABLE: Heat (33), Watters (29), Crossfire (25), Purnells (23), Job Done (22), Sass (18), Fever (12), Fury (11)