THERE are two teams fighting it out for just one remaining grand final spot – it’s game on in O&K netball.
Saturday’s preliminary is make-or-break for both Bonnie Doon and Milawa in the A grade, with the winner of this weekend’s match to take on Greta in the decider.
Spectators can except an exceptionally contested and close match – their two meetings this season have been decided by a total of just seven goals.
Milawa coach Kerrie Gray said her side was hoping to bounce back after a disappointing qualifying final loss to Greta last weekend.
“We were a little bit flat on Saturday and although we matched Greta in the first quarter we dropped off and didn’t have good connections down court,” she said.
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“Definitely disappointed from Saturday, not necessarily about the loss but more so about our performance - if you want to match it with the best you have to show up ready to play your best.
“Absolutely this week we need to play with that nothing-to-lose mentality and be prepared to work really hard.
“Bonnie Doon have been building for a couple of years and have cemented themselves as real contenders this season.
“They have a good balance of youth and experience and their youngsters are exciting to watch.
“The Bonnie Doon goalers have had a great season and are a tough combination to impact but our focus for the day will be on playing our game and using the ball well.”
The Bombers are in fine form at the most important time of the year, fresh and fired up after their 58-36 semi-final win over Tarrawingee.
Bonnie Doon coach Michelle Tanner said her side would need to play as well as they have all year to defeat the Demons.
“To beat Milawa we would all have to be playing our best netball, and it will come down to playing well for the full sixty minutes.
“Their team is strong right across the court but I think our match-ups are evenly paired.
“All games in finals have an element of pressure but we are well prepared and I think just the excitement of making it this far is the common feeling among the playing group.
“Anything can happen in finals so the two losses through the home and away season are in the past and we look forward to the challenge.”
Milawa and Bonnie Doon go head to head this Saturday for a place in the A grade grand final from 2.30pm at North Wangaratta.
In other matches, North Wangaratta takes on Greta in the under 15s, Greta plays King Valley in the C grade, Milawa is up against Whorouly in B reserve, and the B grade Bombers face off with the Bulldogs.
