MILLICENT remained undefeated in the Western Border netball home and away season and will have no intention on letting that status slip when facing North Gambier in the second semi-final at Malseed Park today.
However, if anyone is going to contend for the reigning premiers title, it is North Gambier.
Millicent always seems to find a way, but it is clear that in 2017 North Gambier looms as its most likely challenger.
Both sides boast class in every position, which makes the match ups critical.
Maddie Whaites has a tough ask, containing the influence of star goal shooter Donna Denton.
Whaites has been a fantastic addition to the North line-up and her combination with Lisa Fyfe has gelled from the get-go.
Fyfe has been a star in 2017 and her closing speed and willingness to contest every ball gas challenged every opponent.
Her opponent Keah Lynch, does have a weapon, though, that will trouble the star defender – speed to burn.
Combining with Audine Bryant, Lynch can attack the post.
Both Denton and Lynch will need to be as accurate, as both Fyfe and Whaites are strong rebounders.
The match-up between Mel Renko and Bryant looms as large as any.
Bryant has sliced up opposition defences with her speed onto the circle, but Renko is the competition’s premier wing defender.
She is also a critical link player for the Tigers.
However, Millicent may put Bryant through the middle and use the long driving and safe hands of Lisa Duldig on the attacking wing.
Duldig will initially take on the centre role against Amanda O’Shaughnessy.
Both are tough competitors and have as strong a defensive mindset.
O’Shaughnessy has been the key feeder for the Tigers.
However, Kaitlin Smith has adjusted well to her role on the attacking wing.
Her work rate in unquestionable and her delivery has become pinpoint.
The problem for her will be she takes on the tight-checking Madi Turner.
The 2017 debutante has become the master at getting touches around the circle and she will make sure Smith earns every possession.
Smith and O’Shaughnessy will be at their best to deliver into Caroline Davey who has been prolific and accurate in 2017.
But Hayley Dunn is no average defender and she is in top form.
The bottom line for the Saints is if they can limit Davey’s opportunities they will most likely defeat the Tigers.
However, the remaining match-up is also crucial as premiership defender Kimmi Varcoe takes on North debutante Ellie Gould.
Gould has grown into her goal attack role and has shown no fear about taking the shot.
Varcoe will test the youngster, though, with her ability to contest everything.
It will be a tight and intense clash, but in the end Millicent will advance directly into the grand final.
