Maroons and Uni in finals workout

DIAMONDBACKS and University will place the finishing touches on their finals series preparation when they test each other out at 1.30pm in their women’s Premier League hockey finalround match.

The Maroons have Laura Harrison returning from injury just in time to brush off the cobwebs, while Belinda Page won’t be risked after succumbing to injury.

University is on a sevengame winning streak and DiamondBacks coach Sarah Birch believes both sides have exceeded expectations.

“I think the prediction this year was us finishing fifth, however I was quietly confident that we could be competitive given how well the team was connecting on and off the field,” Birch said.

“We’re pleased with a toptwo finish and are confident when we bring our A game that anything is possible.

“I set the target of having player flexibility through our lines and we have achieved this by the end of the season, so I’m very excited about heading into finals.”

While both sides will be excused for trying out some different structures and personnel changes, Uni coach Vanessa McDonald will give exposure to some juniors.

“The players’ committed attitude to our style of play has been so pleasing and we still have three out this week so our juniors get exposure to one of the favourites ahead of next week’s knockout semi,” McDonald said.

Minor premiers NorthWest Graduates welcome back Brigit Ikin and coach Chris Hazelwood wants to see them continue to work on their execution in the attacking circle. Graduates smashed half a dozen past Canterbury last week and will be out to repeat that effort against bottom side OHA at 4.30pm.

Derwent can secure fifth position with victory against the struggling Lions at 3pm, with the result being added to the men’s scoreline to decide the Wells-Guest Cup.