SEABL MID WEEK PREVIEWS WOMEN ROUND 17
SEABL WOMEN GAME OF THE WEEK
KILSYTH v KNOX
Saturday 21st July 6:15pm @ Kilsyth
With the home stadiums for these clubs within 10kms of each other, the rivalry between Knox and Kilsyth is extremely tense, and this weeks game between the Raiders and Cobras should be a typically tough encounter against two very good teams. Knox has been outstanding all season, losing only once, and a victory against archenemies Kilsyth this week will be extra sweet as it will confirm the Minor Premiership.
The Lady Cobras are coming off a disappointing round 16, losing both of their games and they now face some danger of losing second position in the South conference, having held it for the majority of the season. For Kilsyth, Hayley Moffatt has always been known for her defensive prowess, but has also shown this season that she is an offensive threat if not respected by opposition teams. Moffatt is averaging career highs in all the major statistical categories this year and has been a significant factor in the Lady Cobras success. But her task this week will be to shut down either Amy Denson or Odette Andrew. Andrew is having a huge season, also averaging a career high of 14 points per game this season.
Kilsyth have won most of their games this season due to their frugality at the defensive end, but this will be a real test for them at the other end, as Knox have also excelled on defence under new coach Cheryl Chambers. The Raiders are conceding an average of just 57 points per game this season, which is tied for equal best in the league with Dandenong.
Knox won their previous encounter against Kilsyth 69-54 in round 3, but both teams have changed markedly since the earlier contest, so that result can only give a limited indication as to how this game will shape up. Sarah Parsons will be keen to secure the victory, not only because she is playing against her former teammates, but she will also be playing her 200th SEABL game.
Prediction: Knox by 15.
FRANKSTON v CANBERRA
Friday 20th July 6:00pm
Canberra have won three of their past four, and are playing quality basketball at this late stage of the season. The Caps Academy will be a tough opponent for the injury-plagued Lady Blues squad.
ALBURY/WODONGA v HOBART
Friday 20th July 6:30pm
After a 32-point effort from Nya Mason last week, Lady Bandits coach Tammy Goyne will be keen for another big effort from her import this week. Masons battle against league-leading rebounder Caila Desroches will have a huge impact on the games final outcome.
BRISBANE v SANDRINGHAM
Saturday 21st July 5:30pm
With a playoff position assured, the Sabres can use this game to test out new offensive structures and improve on their defence. Sandringham give up 72 points to the Lady Bandits last week, and will need to improve in this area if they are to progress past the first week in finals.
GEELONG v BALLARAT
Saturday 21st July 5:30pm
The Lady Supercats are undefeated at home, on a three game winning streak, and have beaten Ballarat already this season. But all these factors will not deter the Rush from striving for a victory this week. The match-up between Rush forward Nat Taylor and Supercats Deanna Smith is sure to entertain the crowd.
DANDENONG v HOBART
Saturday 21st July 5:30pm
Hobart needs to record at least one victory this weekend to stay in contention for the final playoff spot in the South Conference. Dandenong however need to keep winning to remain on top of the East Conference and gain home court advantage in the playoffs.
BENDIGO v LAUNCESTON
Saturday 21st July 6:00pm
After a disappointing loss to Canberra, coach Lukas Carey will be looking for a better performance at home this week. Bendigo defeated Launceston earlier this season, but needs his team to be ready to play as the Tornadoes have the talent and ability to win this game.
NUNAWADING v CANBERRA
Saturday 21st July 6:30pm
Both teams come into the game full of confidence due to their form over recent weeks. Nunawading have all but sealed third position on the South Ladder, but coach Jaysn Harvey will want to avoid a loss to a non-playoff team at this late stage of the season.
BALLARAT v LAUNCESTON
Sunday 22nd July 12:00pm
Should the Rush secure two victories this week they will increase their playoff chances immensely. Launceston however will be no easy beats despite sitting in sixth position on the ladder, as they have height in the frontcourt to trouble the undersized Ballarat line-up.
Follow us on Facebook and Twitter @SEABL
