THE GAME BREAKERS

CAIRNS POST HOCKEY WRITER ROWAN SPARKES PICKS THE PLAYERS TO BUST OPEN TONIGHT’S A-GRADE DECIDER

SOUTHS CAITLYN WHIPP

The skipper and reigning Agrade player of the year is a handful in the midfield and will again demand plenty of attention. She can change the game significantly with her rapid decision-making in both attack and defence.

PATRICE BUTLER

Her ability to carry the ball and create attacking chances with her skilful long-passing game will be critical in the biggest game of the year. Her experience will be invaluable in the middle of the pitch in the high-pressure decider.

LAYLA PARKER

The teenage keeper has been a brick wall in front of goal throughout the season, conceding just three goals in eight games. She was the grand final hero in 2017, making three critical saves in her first penalty shootout to secure the premiership.

SARAH COCHRAN

Her hunger for the ball and execution inside the circle are among the best in the comp. She has proven herself on the big stage before, burying two goals in Souths’ 3-0 grand final triumph over Stingers last year.

SAINTS TENEAL KELLY

The Saints captain will look to lead by example up front, as she has done all season. Her ability to find the back of the net and to create space for her fellow strikers has really helped Saints throughout the back half of the season.

RHYLEE PENDRIGH

The experienced defender will be charged with directing her side around the park from the back. Her organisation and composure will be critical in defence, while her tight control and passing game mean she is a constant threat.

KAYLA DEVLIN

The American defender has endured an unusual debut season with the club, but has been one of Saints’ most consistent performers. She buried a drag flick to give her side the upper hand in last week’s elimination semifinal, and her teammates will be hoping she can produce a repeat effort on Friday night.

LIV MCARTHUR

The confident midfielder is always a threat going forward and can be just as influential with her defensive workrate. Her composure and determination on the ball will be a key for Saints.