AT the lower end of the ladder, Casterton Sandford is headed to South Gambier’s newly resurfaced courts to take on the Demons.
Both sides will have new-look lineups, but the Cats will start clear favourites, with a much more experienced roster.
Christine Harris, who had a huge impact in the handful of games she played in 2018, is now coaching the A Grade team and when you add Tori Perry, Madalene Cleary, Haylee Rhook and Scarlett Jarrad to that lineup, it is a versatile and experienced group.
The Cats will also welcome back Marlee Gartlan, a former star junior of the club, with the likes of Gaby Tomkins and Sharna Fidler still in the mix.
Predicting just where these players actually line up is a tough ask, but the Cats always bring maximum effort and the last time these two clubs met, Casterton Sandford – although understaffed – dominated the contest.
South has a young lineup in 2019 and has players missing for the opening round as well.
Much will rest on the leadership of Alyssa Boylan, who will no doubt start in the mid-court, while the return of Alyce Mourbey to the defensive end adds real quality.
Imogen Walker has been arguably the most consistent A Grade performer of the past couple of seasons and whether she plays in goals or the mid-court, she will need to be a leader.
Athletic utility Tori McIntyre is under an injury cloud, while Riley Buckingham has had an impressive pre-season and it will be good to see the young defender make her A Grade debut.
The accuracy of Georgia Hood will be a key in the match, as will the ability of South’s defence to shut down the influence of Harris.
The Cats should win this opening clash, but the Demons have plenty of upside and just need some time to develop a strong understanding on court.
