Netball Finals Previews - Everything you need to know heading into Netball Finals
A1
Major Semi Final: Dingley 1 v Cheltenham 1 12:10pm
Minor Semi Final: Edithvale Aspendale 1 v Caulfield 1 1:40pm
As the A1 division's major semi-final approaches, the spotlight shines brightly on Dingley and Cheltenham, two teams that have taken turns leading the table throughout the season. Edithvale Aspendale, determined to seize every opportunity, is hot on their heels. With a line-up enriched by Victorian Netball League talent, all three teams are gearing up for an intense battle to secure a coveted Grand Final spot.
In the midst of this fierce competition, Caulfield's experienced goaling trio – Sophie O’Shea, Sophie O’Kane, and Bianca Sanzaro – each adorned with substantial VNL experience themselves, are set to showcase their prowess on the court. Their mission is to validate their presence in the upcoming semi final with a display of skill, determination, and teamwork.
Isabelle Hodgson of Dingley enters the major semi-final brimming with confidence following a VNL Championship Grand Final appearance. Her recent successes could serve as a catalyst as Dingley vies for victory in the upcoming clash. Dingley and Cheltenham, having faced each other three times this season, with Dingley currently holding a momentum-fueled 2-1 lead.
A2
Major Semi Final : Murrumbeena 1 v Dingley 2 1:40pm
Minor Semi Final: St Paul’s McKinnon 1 v Springvale Districts 1 3:10pm
As the dust settles from the final round, the A2 division's top 4 teams have emerged, marking the culmination of a fierce battle for supremacy. Last Saturday afternoon, St Kilda City's hopes were dashed by a razor-thin margin, with Springvale Districts securing their spot on percentage. The stage is now set for thrilling encounters that promise to define the journey towards the grand final.
St Paul’s McKinnon enters their elimination final against Springvale Districts with a sense of confidence, having emerged victorious in both encounters this season. These past triumphs set the tone for a clash that hinges on tactics and execution. The spotlight will undoubtedly be on the division's leading goal scorer, Samantha Gabriel (Springvale Districts), whose goal tally outshines that of entire teams. St Paul’s McKinnon's ability to contain her will serve as the ultimate decider in progressing to the preliminary final.
Meanwhile, lead by Paris Tatter, Murrumbeena carries an undefeated streak since round 10 into the upcoming match. Eager to lead her team to the grand final, Tatter's determination and prowess on the court have been instrumental in Murrumbeena's journey. Locked in a fierce contest with a formidable Dingley side, this game is poised to be a spectacle of skill, strategy, and determination.
A3
Major Semi Final: East Brighton 1 v Dingley 3 3:10pm
Minor Semi Final: South Yarra 1 v Cheltenham 3 1:40pm
As the finals series for A3 approaches, the stage is set for an exhilarating clash between East Brighton and Dingley, two teams that have displayed dominant performances in Round 16 to secure the coveted top two spots. This meeting promises to deliver a thrilling spectacle, encapsulating the high-stakes nature of the finals.
East Brighton and Dingley have encountered each other twice this year, resulting in a hard-fought draw in Round 6 and a narrow 2-goal victory for East Brighton in Round 13. These past battles have laid the foundation for what is anticipated to be another closely contested match. Keep an eye on the duel between Annabel Scull of East Brighton and Nicole Carmeni of Dingley, as their clash on the court is expected to be a defining factor in determining the victor.
However, the competition for the top spots is far from over, with South Yarra hot on the heels of East Brighton and Dingley, trailing by just 2 points. Boasting the title of the division's best defensive team, South Yarra enters the fray with the intention of stifling the supply to Kelsey Eade, who has accounted for over 60% of Cheltenham's goals this season.
A4
Major Semi Final: Bentleigh 1 v Carrum Patterson Lakes 1 3:10pm
Minor Semi Final: Caulfield Masters v East Brighton 2 12:10pm
In an eagerly anticipated clash, the undefeated Bentleigh team is set to face off against Carrum Patterson Lakes in what promises to be a thrilling match in this division. Bentleigh's dominant performance this season has positioned them as the team to beat, setting the benchmark for excellence.
As the two teams prepare to square off, all eyes will be on Carrum Patterson Lakes' defenders, Chloe Harkness and Jade Ischenko. They face the daunting task of containing Bentleigh's prolific goalers, which has consistently posed a challenge for opponents throughout the season.
Caulfield Masters, currently in third place, have come closest to cracking Bentleigh's unbeaten streak. Their memorable encounter in Round 3 saw them narrow the gap to just 7 goals, showcasing their competitive spirit. On the other hand, Caulfield Masters have exhibited their dominance over East Brighton with a flawless 2-0 winning record. Notably, their most recent victory featured an impressive 15-goal margin, underlining their offensive prowess.
The spotlight will be on East Brighton's leading goal scorer, Felicity Joe, who holds the key to her team's offensive aspirations. As the match unfolds, she'll undoubtedly be striving to make her mark and keep her team in contention against the formidable Caulfield Masters' defence.
