Vixens ready to reverse poor run of form in cross-town final
GEELONG goalkeeper Emily Mannix says Melbourne Vixens have put their limp end to the regular Super Netball season behind them to fire up for tomorrow’s sudden death finals clash with Collingwood.
The Vixens lost their last three games — including a heavy final round to their cross-town rivals — but know from experience that form heading into the playoffs doesn’t necessarily guarantee success.
In 2017 the Vixens were the minor premiers but lost both the major semi-final and preliminary final to bow out before the title decider.
Ahead of the State Netball Hockey Centre match, Mannix says the team has full faith in going all the way this season.
“Some would say it’s not ideal preparation leading into the finals but we know anything can happen,” Mannix said. “It’s been a really positive week and it’s been all about looking ahead.”
Mannix knows about overcoming disappointment — turning in a big back end of the season after her surprise omission from the Diamonds’ World Cup squad.
Her Vixens teammate, goal defence Jo Weston, made the cut and that pairing will be crucial to a win tomorrow, with their work cut out containing Magpies goalers Natalie Medhurst and Shimona Nelson.
Medhurst, at 35 the oldest player in the competition, was in vintage form in the final round, slotting 16 goals from 17 attempts while Nelson served up 42 goals from 47 attempts.
“They obviously both play very different games and obviously Medhurst is one who is that extra feeder and can read the game really well with her smarts,” Mannix said.
“And then you’ve got Shimona who is super aerial and can take a ball that’s going high out the back of the court. So they play different games but they complement each other well.
“For Jo and myself it’s about trying to break those connections and really bring it to them.”