Two of Murray Netball League’s top A-grade contenders will collide at Mercury Drive on Saturday afternoon, as second-placed Rumbalara welcomes a Moama team brimming with confidence following six straight wins.
Determined to not “peak too early” this season, Rumba has quietly gone about their business during the first eight weeks, banking seven convincing wins as they continue to build nicely into their campaign.
Moama on the other hand has resembled a seven-person wrecking crew in recent weeks, with telling victories against fellow contenders Mulwala and Tongala having positioned nicely in fourth on the table.
Preparing for arguably its biggest challenge of the year, Rumbalara coach Jess Bamblett said her team was in a fantastic place.
“We know it is going to be a tough defensive clash, but the girls are all super excited to test themselves against one of the best teams in Moama,” Bamblett said.
“The important thing for us is just to focus on our own game, if we can bring our attacking style of play and tenacious defence that will give us the best chance of coming away with a win.”
The second clash between the two teams this season, Rumba scored a gritty 10-goal triumph in what was a hotly-contested round one fixture.
Bamblett said she expected a similarly physical game this time around.
“The score probably didn’t represent what a tough game it was, but being able to come away with that win is something we can certainly take confidence out of,” she said.
“For us the key will be to really slow down in the attacking end and convert our shots, because they are a really good rebounding team that will make us pay when we miss.
“Last time out we also noticed they have some very dangerous shooters, so on the defensive end we will have to be very switched on and up for the fight.”
Rumbalara will be buoyed by a number of critical inclusions, with star defender Leah Seeto set to give the side a major boost against one of the competition’s most potent offensive set-ups.
Elsewhere, Barooga will be looking to cause a major boilover as it welcomes a Nathalia team down on form.
Echuca United and Finley face off in what is set to be an intriguing battle at Echuca South Recreation Reserve.
Reeling after a tough defeat against Barooga last week, Congupna will be desperate to return to the winners’ list as it makes the trip to Tongala.
Ladder leader Deniliquin will be looking to flex its muscles as it welcomes Cobram to town.
While Mulwala will be eyeing off a percentage boost as it travels to Numurkah.