NORTH GAMBIER v MILLICENT
NORTH Gambier will hosts Millicent in the Western Border netball match of the round.
The Tigers were impressive on Anzac Day and backed up that performance with a narrow loss to reigning titleholders West Gambier last week.
Now up against the Saints – who finished runners-up in 2022 – an intriguing battle looms.
Millicent has enjoyed two comfortable victories and this weekend’s clash will be its biggest test at this early stage of the season.
Every match up on court looms as critical.
Portia McRae will have the tough task of combating the work under the post of new North shooter Grace Potts, while Lauren Van Eeden will look to stop the creative feeding of Macey Griffith, who also upped her shooting load in Round 2.
At the other end of the court, the North defensive line also has a tall shooter to deal with in Tabatha Sanderson, who receives good service from Demi Verbena.
Verbena was on fire last weekend in Sanderson’s absence and both goalies will need to be covered by the Tigers’ defence.
Mikaila Pitt, Noni McConnell and maybe even young defender Stella Mobbs will need to work over time to limit supply to both Sanderson and Verbena, while also relying on mid-court pressure from Mel Renko, Lauran Norman and Brianna Walters.
The North mid court will need to be at its best, given the Saints possess the perfect mix of youth, speed and experience through the centre.
Lillie Paul, Daisy Tunkin, Kimmi Varcoe – who can also fill a defensive role – and Lisa Duldig loom as daunting opponents for any opposition.
As such Millicent should take the points after an arm wrestle.
