PDL | Top-of-the-table clash headlines weekend netball action

By Daniel Webb

Jun 22, 2022

In action: Both Mathoura and Tungamah will be hoping to secure wins on the weekend. Photo: Steve Huntley Photo by Steve Huntley

Two of the form Picola and District Netball League A-grade sides are set to face off on Saturday afternoon, with Tungamah and Strathmerton preparing for battle.

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The game at Tungamah’s Jubilee Park sees both teams in good form and a four-point top-two buffer on the line.

Strathmerton sits in second place on the ladder while Tungamah sits in third, with both teams on 36 points alongside the league-leading Waaia.

This makes Saturday’s game all the more exciting and Bulldogs coach Olivia Osborne said the side was looking good ahead of the game.

“We’ve had a week off, which came at the right time,” Osborne said.

“A few bodies were starting to need a week off so we’re feeling fresh and hopefully ready to go.

“It’s going to be a tough game, they’ve played some good netball.”

Osborne explained that while it was important to win the game on Saturday it would also be a good opportunity to see how the side stacked up against another finals contender.

She said Kate Betson would be back in the Bulldogs’ squad for her first game of the season, with the wing defence to bring plenty of experience and leadership this weekend.

Like Osborne, Tungamah coach Jayanna Sharp said Saturday’s game would provide a chance to see how the sides stacked up.

“It’s a big game for us and we’re looking forward to it,” Sharp said.

“It couldn’t have come at a better time of the year, going into the finals it’s good to have those tough games.”

Sharp said her side was feeling pretty confident going into the game, however with Thursday night training still to be run, she was unsure how the squad would look.

Chelsea Sidebottom is set to make a return from injury, while a number of players who were out with COVID-19 could also make their way back into the squad.

The Bears’ A-grade game against Strathmerton will get under way in Tungamah at 1.30pm.

In other round 13 Picola and District Netball League action, Waaia will travel to Katunga.

The Bombers fell to Picola United last week and with Katunga looking to secure a finals berth this game could go either way.

Elsewhere Tocumwal will face an away trip to Mathoura, Picola United is set for a tough test against Rennie and Katandra will take on Jerilderie.

Blighty, Katamatite and the Deni Rovers will all have a week off.