Congupna will view its round eight clash with Barooga as a major opportunity to catapult itself back up into top-six contention on the Murray League A-grade netball table.
While the Road comes into this clash off a one-goal win against Echuca United in round seven, coach Ash Warren said the feeling was bittersweet with the game called off at half time due to court condition.
Ruing a missed chance to add some much-needed percentage, this week’s match against Barooga serves as pivotal, with a loss having the potential to all but ruin Congupna’s finals chances.
Warren said her team was champing at the bit to return to the court at the weekend.
“We are very excited for this game after having the bye last weekend, we did have a practice match at the weekend to keep court-fit, so we come into this game in a great spot to secure a win,” Warren said.
“We were very disappointed that we weren’t able to play a full game against Echuca United a couple of weeks ago, so we will have a lot of eager girls take to the court that are keen to put in a good performance.”
Looking ahead to how the game might play out, she said there were a couple of areas she believed her team would have an advantage.
“Utilising our defensive pressure is key for us, we have a lot of height in our defence so I think that will give us a big advantage,” she said.
“We also have a great, fit and super quick mid-court, so we will look to make it a very fast game and take it right up to Barooga from the opening minutes.”
In terms of their season, this clash is an absolute must-win for the Road. This is a challenge that excites Warren and her full-strength squad.
“This is definitely a vital game for us to win with the way the ladder is at the moment, and we can’t wait for the challenge,” she said.
“It will be very nice to welcome Morgan Zotti back to the lineup this week, so we come into the game at full strength.”
Around the courts, Finley will be hoping for another competitive performance as it welcomes the Rumbalara juggernaut to town.
After a heartbreaking end to its clash with Congupna a fortnight ago, Echuca United will be desperate to respond as it makes the trip to Nathalia.
Fresh off its first win of the season, a confident Cobram welcomes Tongala.
Moama will have its eyes set on six wins in a row as it faces the winless Numurkah on its home court.
Meanwhile, ladder-leader Deniliquin Rams will be looking to continue their undefeated start to the season as they travel to Mulwala.