MILDURA and Ouyen United know a thing or two about competing in big games.
The pair have battled it out in the last two preliminary finals, the Kangas winning the honours in 2022 and the Demons last year, on both occasions the margin being only four goals.
They also fought out a 48-all draw in round 13 of last season to prove how close the margin is between the squads.
While Wentworth emerged as premiership winners in both seasons, this weekend’s opponents could lay claim to being the best of the rest
Mildura coach Ellie Vincent said the squad couldn’t wait for the contest.
“Ouyen are such a good side that we love playing against,” Vincent said.
“They’re a good physical team who also move the ball incredibly well so we know we’ll have our work cut out for us.
“All teams have new players and new movements and will be looking to bring their best netball so I don’t think the preliminary final will be thought of too much.
“We’re looking forward to a great game.”
Vincent praised the performance of captain Ally Leng against Merbein last week and said she was happy with how new addition Hanna Zambelli had fitted into the squad.
“Ally’s ability to run and help out the defence and then be involved in attack as well is a huge bonus for us and I can’t wait to see how she performs this year,” she said.
“We lost Katelyn Challis for this season so we were on the hunt for someone to fit that wing defence role and Hanna has slotted in well.
“She’s definitely a defensive player who has found her slot back there.
“Coming into a new club and team is never easy but she’s settled in really well.”
However, Ouyen United captain Esther Manley said her side would have “fire in their bellies” following the preliminary final defeat.
“It’s always a good test for us,” Manley said.
“We never seem to beat anybody by huge margins but we always keep up with the tougher sides in the competition.
“I think we’ve all got a bit of fire in our bellies after the preliminary final, and we know Mildura and Wentworth have been our main competitors for the past few years.
“We’ve still got a few girls missing but this is also a great chance for others to get some opportunities and for us to still try a few things as well.”
Manley said the return of Casey Crothers, best on court in their 2019 premiership, would be a boost for the season.
“Most of our shooters are on the smaller side so to be able to have that taller target will be great,” she said.
“Tsharni Burns will miss the first few games of the year while completing her uni so we’ll likely have Casey in defence for a bit yet.”
The Mildura and Ouyen United match-up begins at midday today at Brian Weightman Oval.
Meanwhile, all other A Grade games will start at the later time of 1.30pm on account of twilight football matches.
The undefeated Irymple will look to continue their early season hot streak against Imperials, Robinvale Euston are back from the bye and host an improving Red Cliffs side, and the all-conquering Wentworth will tackle Merbein.
