As we reach the final week of the regular season for the VNL, the race for a finals spot has intensified, especially in the 19/Under division with fourth spot there for the taking. North East Blaze are aiming to go for a stunning 18 wins on the trot in Division 1 as Geelong Cougars hope to finish the regular season on a high.
Fixtures
Geelong Cougars v Ariels
North East Blaze v Wilson Storage Southern Saints
Melbourne University Lightning v Casey Demons
Hawks Netball v Peninsula Waves
Boroondara Express v City West Falcons
Championship- Stacey Gannon
Stacey Gannon has been a key player in the Ariels side this season, having developed a strong combination with fellow goaler Olivia Morris with the pair giving opposition defence plenty of headaches throughout the season. When going to the post, Gannon is dangerous from just about anywhere in the goal circle, willing to take the long range or close shots. Coming off her milestone game last week the captain of the the Ariels will be hoping to bring that intensity and leadership on the court. Gannon will be raring to go when the Ariels take on ladder leaders in Geelong on Wednesday night.
Division 1- Meg Matthews
Meg Matthews has been a key player in the Melbourne University Lightning midcourt, using her speed to her advantage, especially on circle edge and in second phase. Matthews is strong when feeding the ball into the shooters, able to position the ball in the right place at the right time. She has a great combination with Melbourne University captain Shannon Blackman, combining nicely when transitioning the ball down the court to bypass the defence of opposition teams. Matthews and the Lightning will have to be on their A-game when they take on the Casey Demons.
19/Under- Charli Nicol
Charli Nicol is a rising star of the VNL and a key player in the City West Falcons line up. Nicol is an impressive aerial defender who can play across both defensive positions, using her long arms to her advantage to be able to get deflections and, intercepts. Her constant hustle allows her to win ball back for City West Falcons and propel her side into attack. Nicol also has a fantastic netball brain, enabling her to contest for every ball and do so cleanly. Nicol and the Falcons will be looking to secure a top two finish when they come up against Boroondara Express.
