Premiers Cripps Waratah in fight for finals spot

Cripps who easily accounted for both coastal sides in Devon and Burnie last weekend found themselves back in the hunt for finals action aided by Karana Flames dropping both of their games against Cavaliers and Hawks. Cripps are now a win clear in fourth but Karana Flames who this week meet Kingston have a game in hand. 

Cripps although buoyed by the two victories and with the added motivation of a must win clash face the unenviable task of facing undefeated Arrows who are 17-0 and 4 wins clear atop the table. Cripps coach Rosalie Navickas said her side faced a tough assignment against Arrows but were aware of the areas they needed to improve. 

“The game Friday night is going to be a tough one.  Arrows are the inform side and are playing well so we need to focus on timing, ball placement and being strong to the ball.  We will need to make the most of every opportunity we have to score and will need to apply more consistent defensive pressure throughout the court than the last time we met.” Navickas said. 

Navickas said that her side had the belief and quality to play finals this year but every game from now to the end of the season was vital. 

“The road trip next weekend will be pivotal to our final four placement.  We have the talent and the ability to finish in the top four and we have the belief that it is achievable.” 

Arrows coach Andrew Jackson said his side wouldn’t be changing too much going in to Friday’s game and was just focused on the quality of his sides’ performance. 

“We won’t be doing anything different. Just looking to play good netball and prepare for finals.” Jackson said. 

He did however acknowledge the importance of the match for their opponents and the added motivation it would bring. 

“Cripps needs to beat one of the teams above them or rely on teams below them beating Karana. This should give them added motivation to keep their season alive” 

Bellamy’s Organic Cavaliers can all up assure their participation in finals with a victory in their game against Burnie Tigers at the Silverdome. Cavaliers will be favourites to win and still remain a chance of catching northern rivals Northern Hawks in the battle for second place and the double chance so there will be no room for complacency from the Cavaliers. Burnie Tigers however always prove a tricky assignment for any team and are known for strong defensive pressure and work rate. 

Bottom placed OPSM Devon winless so far this season host high flying Myrtle Ridge Northern Hawks experiencing a great year under first year coach Steffi Grenda. Hawks unbeaten in seven matches are experiencing their most successful season in recent memory and should prove far too strong for Devon and all but secure second spot and the double chance in finals. 

StLukes Karana Flames who looked to have grabbed the jump on Cripps Waratah in the hunt for the last finals place prior to a winless weekend last week face a tricky assignment against Glendon Kingston Blues in the rounds final match. Karana’s fortunes are still in their own hands and with an easy draw than Cripps in the run home a win here will give them the edge in the battle for fourth place. 

For the latest result, match details and in depth statistics please view http://my.netball.com.au/go.aspx?&entityid=38951&id=DRAW 

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