Can match the Demons?

It’s the final countdown, and everybody’s watching! Having spent the season firmly entrenched at the top of the Wimmera Netball Association ladder, which team can disrupt Horsham’s unblemished record?

Minyip-murtoa, you’re first up and will have that chance by nipping closely at their heels and sitting clearly in second place on the ladder. Warrack Eagles remain in third spot with four rounds to play but they must continue to grind out fighting wins.

Dimboola, Horsham Saints and Nhill will contest the next two spots, with Ararat needing to quickly make a move. Stawell, meanwhile, continues to search for its first win.

When we talk about talent, there’s going to be plenty of it running around as Minyip-murtoa takes on Horsham Demons at home on Saturday. There’s a lot riding on this match, not just for the two playing off, but also for the rest of the competition. If you look ahead, you will see the two sides meeting again in the final round.

The Demons have been very good this year – very, very good. But the Burras have

ACROSS THE LEAGUES

also had a particularly impressive season and boast a versatile squad. For the Burras shooting queen Kirby Knight will be an ever-reliable target under the post. Her pairing with Maddison Morgan last week gave them a massive goal rush, which against the Demons will attract the attention of Georgia Hiscock and Mel Scott.

Demons mid-court general Abbie Avery will look to control the tempo, but will need to work for that because she will have some Burras runners in either Spencer Smith or Billie Bibby in her way. Up forward for the Demons, youngster Emma Buwalda has had a sensational season under the post, and the Burras will throw talented Stevie Bibby in her direction. Their clash will be a treat for spectators. It’s hard to call the result on this one, Eddie, I’ll phone a friend.

Okay Nhill and Dimboola, your time starts, now. There is no time like the present to confirm your September intentions and if old rivalries are anything to go by, it will be decided in a close one. Whoever gets on top early will collect the four points. Nhill’s Emma Beer will continue to be a solid target under the post for her side, while for the Roos Carly Werner will have a bit to say about that.

If Warrack Eagles want to hold on and finish the season third, they need to stay on the winners list. While they got over the line last weekend, they still need to look at establishing strong combinations in attack.

In the middle for the Eagles, Emma Koschitzke and Petah Winsall must lead by example by feeding in plenty of balls from the circle’s edge.

For Stawell, there is nothing to lose – if the Warriors can play with no fear, and be competitive for the whole match, they can put the pressure on teams in the top five.

Ararat will travel to take on Horsham Saints, and while there’s plenty to like about the Ararat side, it must start using its speed and carry through the middle.

If the Saints can cement a top-five finish, they could cause damage come September. They will rely on coach Jess Cannane to keep them fearless and focused. Round-12 results: Warrack Eagles d Ararat 45-43, Horsham d Dimboola 63-47, Horsham Saints d Nhill 57-47, Minyip-murtoa d Stawell 72-19.