The first week of VNL finals had it all, and the prelims are set to be no different. Six teams from five clubs will face off to claim the last spot in the 2023 Grand Finals.
FIXTURE
Wednesday 2 August
CHAMPIONSHIP
- Geelong Cougars vs Boroondara Express
DIVISION 1
- Hawks Netball vs North East Blaze
19&U
- Melbourne University Lightning vs North East Blaze
BROADCAST GUIDE
Netball Victoria Facebook & KommunityTV
7pm
Championship | Geelong Cougars vs Boroondara Express
KommunityTV
7pm
19&U | Melbourne University Lightning vs North East Blaze
8.45pm
Division 1 | Hawks Netball vs North East Blaze
ONES TO WATCH
Championship
Geelong Cougars will be hoping to bounce back from last week’s tough loss against City West Falcons, while Express were impressive in their semi final win. Brooke Allan has been instrumental for the Cougars this season, and will need to continue that form when she comes up against sharpshooter Isabelle Hodgson. With one win apiece in the regular season, it's sure to be a gripping clash.
Division 1
Hawks Netball will take on North East Blaze to play for the remaining spot in the Division 1 Grand Final. The Hawks will be looking to return to form following their seven-goal loss, while North East Blaze will be aiming to back up last week’s nail-biting win with another victory. Expect to see a midcourt battle between Kaila Swindell and Maddi Wallmeyer, who’ve both been outstanding for their sides this season. The Hawks have claimed the points on both occasions in 2023 and will be eyeing off a possible trifecta while the Blaze will fight to break the pattern.
19&Under
Melbourne University Lightning will face off with North East Blaze in the 19&U preliminary final. Lightning’s winning streak came to a halt after a narrow extra time loss, while Blaze continued their hot form with a semi final win. It’ll be a battle of the shooters when Kate O’Dwyer and Talasa Helen Aumua go head-to-head at either end of the court. With one win each during the home and away season, this highly anticipated match up could go either way.
