FIXTURE
Sunday 25 May
- Casey Demons vs Gippsland Stars (Cranbourne East)
Wednesday 28 May
- City West Falcons vs Peninsula Waves
- Hawks Netball vs North East Blaze
- Wilson Storage Southern Saints vs Boroondara Express
- Bendigo Strikers vs Melbourne University Lightning
- Western Warriors vs Geelong Cougars
BROADCAST
Netball Victoria Facebook
City West Falcons vs Peninsula Waves
7pm – 23&U
8.30pm – Championship
KommunityTV
Wilson Storage Southern Saints vs Boroondara Express
7pm – Championship
8.30pm – 23&U
**Access is free for existing Herald Sun subscribers.
ROUND HIGHLIGHTS
Championship
- Despite sitting at opposite ends of the ladder, both the Southern Saints and Boroondara Express are coming off dominant wins. Express were clinical last week, reaffirming their status as premiership contenders, while the Saints continue their climb. A key matchup looms between Saints defender Mia van Wyk and Express playmaker Ruby Barkmeyer. Van Wyk’s speed and aerial prowess will be crucial in limiting Barkmeyer’s influence, with both players pivotal to their side’s success.
- The Bendigo Strikers are coming off back-to-back losses and have slipped out of the top four, while Melbourne University Lightning continue to struggle with converting gains into goals. With several key players still sidelined, the Strikers have a chance to experiment with new combinations, a move that could pay dividends come a potential finals appearance. Meanwhile, the return of experienced campaigner Claudia Mawson is a major boost for the Lightning. Her leadership will be vital as they push for a win, with a key matchup against Bendigo’s Ruby Turner in what promises to be a fierce contest.
- The Western Warriors will be out to respond after a tough loss, while the Geelong Cougars regained confidence with a crucial win last week to get back on track. For the Warriors, ball supply into the shooting circle was a challenge and if the Cougars can replicate that pressure through strong defensive efforts up the court, they’ll be well placed for back-to-back wins. Simona Di Filippo will be a key figure for the Warriors on the centre pass. Her ability to provide depth on second phase and drive to circle edge will be vital in delivering clean ball to the shooters.
23&Under
- North East Blaze remains unbeaten, but if any team can challenge their streak, it’s the in-form Hawks Netball. Both sides are known for their consistent four-quarter efforts and ability to break games open with dominant runs. All eyes will be on the battle in the circle between Hawks sharpshooter Dakota Blade, averaging over 30 goals a game with near-flawless accuracy under the post, and Blaze defender Eliza Molino whose sharp footwork and front-positioning makes her a relentless opposition in the air.
- A pivotal matchup between sixth and seventh as the City West Falcons gear up to face the Peninsula Waves, with both sides eyeing a coveted spot in the top four. The Falcons’ shooting duo, Amalani Fauonuku and Holly Adams-Alcock, continues to impress with shooting averages in the 90s. But Mackenzie Oracz’s threat in defence for the Waves is critical, with her speed and dominance in the pocket essential in disrupting the Falcons’ flow into the circle.
- It’s a clash of titans as second-placed Bendigo Strikers takes on third-placed Melbourne University Lightning, with just two points separating the sides on the ladder. Still reeling from last week’s close loss, the Lightning will be eager to turn the tables and secure an important victory against the Strikers. In the match of the round, all eyes will be on the duel between Strikers defender Eliza Mooney and Lightning’s ever-reliable target Kate O’Dwyer, who continues to be a calm and consistent force under the post.
ONE TO WATCH
Caitlin Cooke is a standout defender known for her aerial ability and fearless approach in the circle. She takes on the league’s tallest shooters with ease, using her leap and timing to win crucial ball. Cooke’s commitment is unquestionable, often seen flying in the air in pursuit of intercepts and tips to disrupt play. The reigning A-Grade MVP in the Outer East Football Netball League, also earned a spot at goal defence in the 2024 A-Grade Team of the Year while starring for the Pakenham Lions.
