NORTH GAMBIER V WEST GAMBIER
THE Tigers are the walking wounded at the moment and you do not want to be anything but full strength when taking on top ranked West Gambier.
A cloud hangs over North Gambier mid-court star Brianna Walters and defender Zahra Crough after they were forced from the court with injury in last weekend’s loss to East.
North has been able to utilise junior talent to fill the void throughout 2022, but when you are taking on the competition benchmark, having your best line-up is paramount.
Caroline Wakefield had a quiet game by her lofty standards last week and her battle with Jade Ritter will be pivotal in determining the final outcome.
Macey Griffith was outstanding at goal attack for the Tigers last weekend and she will need to reproduce that level against West’s Amy Cram, who is one of the smartest, toughest defenders going around.
Mel Renko’s battle with Roos coach Lisa McGregor also looms large, with both being key on-court leaders.
Renko leads North’s defence, while McGregor is the general of West’s frontline.
The Roos have not shown any mercy to opposition in recent rounds and will set themselves for a comfortable victory.
However, North rarely has two quiet games in a row and will look to bounce back in a big way.
Slowing West’s slick ball movement will be a huge focus for the Tigers.
The the likes of Lauran Norman, Libby Morgan and hopefully Walters have to play strong defensive roles through the mid court.
They will need to deny Mikaela Horrigan, Tara Bryant and Zoe Malseed domination in transition.
If the Tigers brings a better method to finding Wakefield in space, they will be in the hunt, but the Roos should take the points.
