James Murphy
IT will be another split fixture for Round 7 of the Limestone Coast Women’s Football League.
The weekend kicks off with Friday night football in Millicent, where two games will be played at McLaughlin Park.
A battle of Tigers will open proceedings when Mundulla and North Gambier clash in a top-of-the-table contest.
Mundulla carries red-hot form into the bout and has established itself as a heavyweight for season 2023.
The Tigers have also been strong and sits in second place, but a loss to Casterton Sandford last round would have shaken some confidence.
The Cats lost to Mundulla 100-0 just a few short weeks ago, suggesting North could be in for a tough outing.
The likes of Libby Howe-Morgan, Alice Tentye and Mikaila Pitt have been standouts of recent rounds for the Tigers.
Chloe Perryman is another regular in the best, while the pace of Paris Ackland is another weapon for North.
They will be looked to again, among others, in what will be their greatest test of the year.
Mundulla has no shortage of talent and power, with the likes of Casey McElroy, Erin Horsnell, Melody Maddern and Kaylene Rowett coming off impressive displays in a comprehensive win over Kongorong.
Kellsey Hinge has been another regular among the best and the northern Tigers are sure to put their southern rivals to the test.
Following their match home team Millicent will take on South Gambier.
The pair enter the round each with one win for 2023, but the Demons should have their hosts covered.
Both wins came at the expense of wooden spooner Kalangadoo, but at this point South seems the more settled side.
Sophie Wight has been impressive, while Dakota Trotter comes off a solid performance in front of goal.
Joined by Lucy and Emily Pridham, Leonie Robertson and Jarrah Altschwager the Demons have a solid foundation and should be untroubled by the Saints.
Millicent looks to Lauren Potter, Kelsie Wilkinson, Megan Tilby and Michelle Robinson often, while Allanah Pratt is another consistent performer.
For the remainder of the round we look over to Kongorong on Sunday.
Kalangadoo plays Kybybolite in the opener and a one-sided contest is expected.
The Magpies sit winless at the bottom of the ladder, while reigning premier Kyby will be desperate to keep itself in the race for a top-four finish.
Kybybolite has had a slight fall from grace this year, but a 21-all draw to Mundulla gave a glimpse into the potential it has retained.
Dellie Brown has been impressive, while Zara East, Kate Edmonds and Meg Ross have also had their moments in the spotlight.
Taysha Marshall comes off a best-on-ground performance for the Magpies, but it would take something special to deny Kyby the win.
A potentially close battle between Kongorong and Penola will close the round, with both teams well in the hunt for finals.
The Eagles will carry the momentum from last night’s rescheduled game against Casterton Sandford and will hope for a strong performance.
Caroline McGrath has been one to watch for Penola, while Ellise and Heidi Berkin and Angela Broad have also been solid.
They will enter confident in their ability, particularly after a good win over North in Round 4.
The Hawks started the year well but have since struggled against the top teams.
The likes of Evie Sealey, Hannah Kuhl-Miller and Sophie and Jade Longbottom will look to step up and should the team bring its best it could be in for an upset.
However, Penola will not want to let a valuable win slip from its grasp with just two minor rounds left after this week.
ROUND 7 FIXTURE
McLaughlin Park (Friday, March 3): North Gambier v Mundulla, 6.30pm; Millicent v South Gambier, 8.05pm.
Kongorong (Sunday, March 5): Kalangadoo v Kybybolite, 11am; Kongorong v Penola, 12.35pm.
