Finals' spot beckons for Magpies

If ever there was a crunch match in Ovens and Murray A grade netball, it's this weekend's encounter between the Wangaratta Magpies and Lavington at the Norm Minns Oval. The teams have been sparring for most of the year for that coveted fifth position to contest finals with the Panthers holding sway for the last month by two points courtesy of a draw in the opening round against Wodonga. Magpies coach Shea Cunningham has welcomed the opportunity for such a finals-like match in front of their home crowd. "Playing at home is always a lift," Cunningham said. "The crowd, the familiarity, it gives the players that extra edge. "We’ll be looking to harness that energy and make it count." As far as preparation goes, the strategy remains the same although this late in the season a few new aspects are brought in for the players to focus on. "The message stays consistent; focus on our structures, intensity, and discipline," Cunningham said. "To freshen it up, we’re looking at how we communicate that message and keep the group energised. "We’re also reviewing a couple of combinations. "Nothing is locked in yet, but we’re open to tweaks that give us the best chance to match up well against Lavington.' The day is also the club's popular annual goods and services auction with a wide range of items - some useful, some fun - up for grabs in the clubrooms that night. "The netballers will be involved on the night, which is set to be a great evening of entertainment and fundraising for the club’s next infrastructure project," Cunningham said. The night kicks off at 6.30pm Saturday with meals available provided by North East Catering. Entry is $40 and includes canapes, a main meal, entertainment and the auction itself. Tickets can be purchased via the Trybooking link on the Magpies social pages. On the other hand, Wangaratta Rovers face the daunting challenge of Corowa-Rutherglen on their turf in a true David versus Goliath battle. But the Hawks remain unintimidated with their focus on blooding their younger players at every opportunity against the competition's best. "This week’s challenge will be just as tough as last week," Rovers coach Gracie Reid said. "We’re up against tall defenders, accurate shooters, and a fast mid-court, they’re top of the ladder for a reason. "But we’re not here to play their game. "We’ll focus on our game: our structures, our pressure, our teamwork. "Hard work, smart play, and belief in each other, intensity from the first whistle." Reid said the team had reflected on what was executed well last week, and identified small adjustments to make further improvement. "For example our pressure was strong last week, now we take that and elevate our communication and speed in transition," she said. "There will be no positional changes this week. "At this stage of the season, consistency matters. "We know our strengths, we’ve built combinations that work, and now it’s about trusting in them and backing ourselves. "We tend to play better against stronger sides because there’s less pressure on us, allowing us to focus on playing our game with strength and confidence. "These upcoming matches give us the chance to test ourselves and grow and provide opportunities to build momentum and sharpen our skills as a unit." Milla Schubert remains in the side after her impressive showing last week to partner Reid (who shot 24 of 28 against Yarrawonga), while Bec Kreltszheim will move out to WA. "I’m excited to give Milla another run in A grade this weekend to change things up in our shooting end," Reid said. "With her strong hold, I’m hoping to draw the defenders back to the post, allowing me to sweep front more easily and create better space. Bec and I are a great combination, but we know we have to work 100 per cent harder than other teams who have the easy option of an over-ball to a tall holding shooter. "Bec has also proven to be a strong option in the WA position. "Her smarts and composure, combined with Holly’s speed and drive, make for a combination that works well. "It gives us another dynamic setup to throw out on court when needed, adding depth and versatility to our attacking end."

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