DIVISION 1
Preliminary Final: (Loser of Semi Final 1 v. Winner of Semi Final 2)
Heatherton v Bentleigh - 12.00pm
Last time they met: Heatherton 39 def Bentleigh 30
In the Preliminary Final this week, the 'well-rested' Heatherton comes up against Bentleigh. Heatherton found themselves in the difficult position last week of not having enough eligible players available to compete in the First Semi Final against Dingley, having been struck down with the injury curse (knee injuries to several key play-makers, including last season's joint Best and Fairest winner Jaime Regnier), whilst other players were away. Be that as it may, Heatherton earnt themselves the double chance by finishing second at the end of the Home and Away season, and whilst they were forced to forfeit last weekend, the side has given every indication they'll be back on the court this weekend, with several key players returning.
Bentleigh on the other hand went about their business last week, winning a thriller against St Pauls 26 to 24. The Demons have shown a penchant for winning close games this weekend, and do not appear at all daunted by the big stage. With key players Kristy Withers, Sarah Rigney and Lauren Stygall just to name a few, Bentleigh has also shown significant depth this season.
This should prove to be a great tussle. Heatherton have been here before and know what it takes, but Bentleigh just seem to be able to find a way to win at the moment. I'm predicting a close game, but based on last week's performance, I'm tipping Bentleigh to upset the reigning champs and knock them out in straight sets.
Benteigh by 2 goals.
DIVISION 2
Preliminary Final: (Loser of Semi Final 1 v. Winner of Semi Final 2)
Carrum Patterson Lakes v Clayton - 12.00pm
Last time they met: Carrum Patterson Lakes 22 def Clayton 14
Whilst Carrum Patterson Lakes pushed the ladder leaders Dingley every inch of the way last week in the First Semi Final, eventually falling short by just 2 goals, Clayton ended St Kilda City's run with a comfortable 11 goal win.
The challenge this week for Clayton is much greater. Carrum Patterson Lakes and Dingley have proven to be the two sides ahead of the rest this season, and last week's result further vindicated this. Clayton have had great contributions this season from the likes of Sarah Kurth, Kirsten Grainger and Sarah Vaileba just to name a few, but Carrum Patterson Lakes has equally benefited from consistent performances from the likes of Sophie McGuinness, Jessie Hawksworth, Rebekah Reynolds, Alyce Shilg and Georgia Donkin.
I expect this game to be closer than the last time these two sides met, but I think Carrum Patterson Lakes will again be too good, and should win.
Carrum Patterson Lakes by 5 goals.
DIVISION 3
Preliminary Final: (Loser of Semi Final 1 v. Winner of Semi Final 2)
Hidden Grove v Lyndale - 12.00pm
Last time they met: Hidden Grove 35 def Lyndale 28
The fears became reality for the top finishing Hidden Grove last week, when Bentleigh easily accounted for them by 14 goals and headed straight through to the Grand Final. Lyndale on the other hand proved too strong for Mindy Green and the girls from Cheltenham, thus ending their season.
Despite last week's performance, Hidden Grove arguably remains the team to beat. Solid contributions throughout the season from Mia McMillan, Betsy Foskett and Irene Gabell just to name a few have kept the wins ticking along for Hidden Grove. But Lyndale are dangerous; Stacey Davidson, Lauren Morgan, Nicole Hamilton, Belinda Schembri and Rhiannon Dempster have all had terrific seasons, and they're primed for this game.
It will take a big effort from Lyndale to overpower the supremely fast Hidden Grove this week, but I think they can do it.
Lyndale by 1 goal.
Get down to the SDNA courts this Saturday for all the SFL YMCA Monash Netball final action from 12pm!
Address: Springvale & District Netball Association
Rowan Rd
Dingley Village (off Westall Ext)
Melways 88 H6
Player Eligibility
2013 SFL YMCA Monash Netball Finals Series
- All players in finals matches must have played at least 4 games throughout the season to be eligible to participate in that division’s final series.
- Once a player has played the required number of games in a division they are eligible for finals in any other higher division for that club.
- Teams found to be playing an ineligible player during finals will be considered to have lost that match.
- Drawn finals matches will result in a 2 minute time allowance to change ends and verify the score, position changes and substitutions may be made during the change over time.
- An additional 5 minutes each end will be played with players changing ends at the end of each half.
- Should there be a draw at the end of the second half of extra time, play will continue until one team has a clear two goal lead.
- 5 players registered on the original team entry form must take the court in all finals games.
For further information or clarification on Finals eligibility contact
matt.duck@sfl.com.au
