‘Give it our best shot’: Gators meet ladder leader for final round clash

Melbourne University presents a fierce test for the third-ranked Gators and is arguably the team to beat in 2022.

The city-based outfit has one loss to its name this campaign.

The result on Saturday night at Melbourne University Sports Centre will have no impact on the final ladder position for either team.

Shepparton has locked in a home final with its third-placed finish, while University can’t be knocked off top spot.

The Gators will be boosted with the return of star import Garrett Jefferson, who missed last week’s tough loss to Bellarine.

Jefferson was a standout in the first encounter between the Gators and Melbourne University with 20 points — a game Uni went on to win by 17 points.

Speaking this week, Gators head coach Josh Waight said his side understood the task ahead of them.

“We’re really looking forward to taking on Melbourne Uni. They’ve been the benchmark team all season,” he said.

“We know they’re a well-rounded outfit; they shoot the ball well and are tough to score against.

“We’re looking forward to the test and we’ll give it our best shot.”