Grads plot Plate push

THE current holder of the Poddles Plate, University, will be hunted by North-West Graduates in women’s Premier League action today.

The match is played in memory of Julie Podmore, a life member of both clubs. The Students shocked NorthWest in last year’s encounter.

“This game is significant for both clubs,” North-West Graduates coach Chris Hazelwood said. “University were deserving winners last season so we will need to be clean in close, run hard and show patience.”

Graduates have regained midfield pair Annie Scutt and Brigit Ikin at the expense of Emily Divin (Cricket Tasmania contract) and Ellie Brennan (Sydney). Both sides enter the clash with differing form lines as Graduates inflicted DiamondBacks’ first loss of the season, while University was hammered 6-1 by third-placed Canterbury.

Canterbury looked a different side with Hannah Richardson pushing into inside forward with the addition of English import Katie Hopkinson.

The Lions will be without the defensive poise of Ione Patten for their 3pm clash with OHA. Ships coach Susan Brooks hopes her side’s strength can exploit the favourites.

“We’ll be looking to use our fast forward line on the counter-attack, while maximising use of our very fit midfield,” she said.

DiamondBacks can rebound from that first loss with victory against Derwent at 1.30pm.