AYC shooting for grand final history

AYC will be looking to atone for its semi-final loss two weeks ago when it takes on Karana Flames in tonight’s Premier League netball grand final.

This will be AYC’s first grand final appearance in the competition’s 17-year history, whereas Karana has had multiple finals appearances having won back-to-back premierships in 2013-14.

Tonight’s game should see a highly skilled, possibly physical contest with some great matchups all over the court. Both teams have extremely versatile lists allowing both coaches to go to their benches at any time during the game should things not be going to plan.

Karana’s shooting end has had a fabulous season this year, with Tash Hudson pairing beautifully with defender-goalie Eliza Siely.

AYC’s young defensive duo of Tiena Meaclem and Natalie Smedley will have to be at their best if they plan to get on top.

The return of co-coach Reagan Davie in AYC’s shooting end has been a huge boost with Davie’s skill and touch on the ball allowing goal shooter Lilli Hyatt to flourish at her new club this year. Karana has multiple capable options in its defence end, and if they can shut down Davie, this will go a long way to securing the win.

Expect a great contest in the centre with Karana’s Kayla Veitch most likely matching up on AYC captain Chloe Bennett.

AYC co-coach Natalie Downton said her team was raring to go and looking forward to the opportunity to avenge their semi-final loss two weeks ago.

“The last time we played, that’s the best game I’ve seen them [Karana] play,” Downton said. “This week at training we’ve focused on our intensity and it should be a great physical contest.

“The way we’re playing as a group should be enough to win.”

Karana coach Clare Bush is looking for a great team effort.

“After a slow start last week, we played really well — it was a very good team effort and that’s how we’ve played all year,” Bush said. “We’ve got a lot of depth on the bench and a lot of options to cover every position.

“We just plan to play our game and build every quarter.”

The action starts at 8.15pm at Hobart Netball and Sports Centre and will follow the Under-21 Div 1 grand final between AYC and Huon at 6.30pm.