UNDERBOOL’S netball courts will play host to the most anticipated game of the 2021 A Grade netball season so far.
It’s a top of the table clash between Wentworth (3-0) and Ouyen United (2-0), who will meet in a grand final re-match from 2019.
While neither side has tasted defeat so far this season, Wentworth coach Amanda Edwards said this is a contest her side have been preparing for.
“We’ve hit the training track hard this week to get ourselves prepared,” she said.
“We are quite a different line-up compared to when we played them in the grand final. Our attack is pretty similar but we have a couple of new defenders in the line up.
“They’re strong right across the board, and we know what they’re capable of. When it comes to game day we’ll just worry about playing our style of netball.”
Edwards currently leads all scorers in the competition with 116 goals, forming a strong attacking partnership with Liz Rowe (73). Edwards has also been happy with the form of defensive recruit Natalie Vercher.
“Liz Rowe and I have really worked hard to try and re-establish our connection after having the year off and it seems to be working pretty well for us so far,” she said. ”It’s been nice for us to pick up a quality defender like Nat, many newcomers will play for the teams in town so it’s worked well for us. She’s fit in nicely and has gelled really well with the girls.”
In other games, Mildura faces South Mildura at their home court. The Demons’ two losses have come against the top two sides, with a victory against Merbein intertwined.
After losing on Good Friday to Irymple, the Bulldogs have lodged victories against Red Cliffs and Robinvale Euston.
An improved Red Cliffs side took the fight to Imperials last week, but they face another tough test against Irymple coming off the bye.
The Swallows are 2-0 and looking dangerous for the season ahead, with the height of Steph O’Loughlin in attack set to cause the young Tigers defenders some issues.
At the other end of the court, it is a real glimpse into the future as young Irymple defenders Mackenzie Ryan and McKensie Wade take on fellow teenagers Jazmin Parker and Montanna Hulland.
Imperials got off the mark for the season against the Tigers last week, and take on a Robinvale Euston side that’s 0-3.
It’s not all doom and gloom for the home side, however, with one loss coming by a solitary goal and the other by just seven.
