That is the thought on every GVL netball fan’s mind heading into this Sunday’s clash between Mooroopna and Shepparton United, as the two premiership fancies go to battle in what promises to be four quarters of pulsating netball.
Both teams come into this clash in sparkling form having each enjoyed dominant wins against Shepparton-based sides Bears and Swans in the first fortnight of the season.
But while the outside noise is building this up to one of the games of the season, United coach Kara Blizzard isn’t buying into the hype.
“I think it is one of those unknown things, everyone else might say this is the premiership battle but until we have seen every other team it is hard to gauge,” Blizzard said.
“We aren’t holding ourselves accountable too much for this one game, there is a lot more ahead of us, so the key for us will just be enjoying ourselves on what is set to be a big occasion.”
The Demons are set to have a full list of players at their disposal for the marquee clash, with versatile defender Zoe Davies returning to the line-up after a stint with Super Netball side Collingwood.
Blizzard said the challenge of facing a fellow premiership contender so early would put her side in great stead as it built into its 2022 campaign.
“For us this Sunday’s game will be all about the learnings and what we can take out of playing against a very good team in Mooroopna,” she said.
“Hopefully we come away with the win and that is what we are hoping for, but it is not the end of the world (if we lose). My girls know that I expect them to take things away from the game no matter what the result is, so I feel like this is a great test for our squad.”
When it comes to foiling the Cats, the key will be stifling their dominant defence, led by star duo Ash Lancaster and Maddie Wong.
With Mooroopna having held the Swans to just 19 goals last week, Blizzard said United would have to be at their very best all over the court to counter the Cats’ defensive press.
“Ash and Maddie have played together for a few years now so we have come up against them before, so we aren’t unsure of what to expect from them at that end of the court,” she said.
“Mooroopna are strong all over the court; however, their mid-courters are very good and they have a potent attack, so it will take a whole team effort to come away with the win.”
A-grade action between Mooroopna and Shepparton United is set to begin at 2.15pm on Sunday.
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