WEST GAMBIER v NORTH GAMBIER
CLEARLY the Limestone Coast netball match of the round, West Gambier hosts North Gambier for Round 1.
The two clubs will no doubt be in contention at the business end of the season and go head-to-head at Malseed Park this Saturday.
Both have had to slightly tweak their line-ups with West choosing to re-train Mikaela Horrigan as a circle defender while Jade Ritter takes a season off.
Horrigan’s athleticism and ability in the air will be a huge asset for the Roos, especially given she is alongside the premier goal defender in the competition Amy Cram.
At the other end, West has the potent shooting combination of Sarah Ritter and Lisa McGregor – the joint coaches of the 2024 Roos – so both ends of the court are well served.
The mid court has Tara Bryant, Zoe Malseed and the returning Jess Holmes so there is speed, tenacity and two-way running in spades.
North Gambier has a new coach with Penola premiership coach Kaitlin Egan coming back to Tigerland.
She will not only bring her tactical nous but her toughness on court, whether in the mid court or the defensive circle.
With Grace Potts and Macey Griffith set to combine in goals again and Stella Mobbs no doubt set to lock in her role anchoring the defensive end, the Tigers have plenty of weapons of their own.
Add to that the class of Brianna Walters in the mid court, the versatility and leadership of Mel Renko and the injection of Kelly Lockwood – back after a stint in Adelaide – and North will challenge the Roos every step of the way.
However, the home side should secure the points.
