PDL | Strathmerton takes on Picola, Tungamah battles Katamatite in preliminary final action

By Daniel Webb

Aug 31, 2022

A Picola District Netball League A-grade grand final appearance is on the line this weekend, with preliminary final action set to unfold.

After two thrilling semi-finals last weekend and two entertaining qualifying finals the week before, supporters can expect more close contests this weekend.

On Saturday, Strathmerton will do battle with Picola United at Rennie, with the game a rematch of the 2019 decider.

The table-topping Bulldogs will need to be wary as they return to action after a week off, with United sure to be up and about after downing Waaia by a goal.

Strathmerton coach Olivia Osborne said her side was excited about the clash.

“We expect them to come out wanting it just as much as we will,” Osborne said.

“I think it’s going to be a bit of a game of who can settle the nerves first and who can hit the scoreboard.”

Osborne said the last time the two sides met United was understrength, with the side looking strong against Waaia.

“We’re sort of hoping to come out and let them know that we’re there and want the win,” she said.

“We’re looking very strong, we’ve got a full squad with no injuries, it was good to have a week off."

Defender Caitlyn Price will be one to watch for the Bulldogs, while teammate Grace Thompson and Picola’s Jess Beaton will be sure to impress, with the talents invited to the league’s vote count next week.

“We’ve been a bit unlucky, our last final was in the wet, so we’re hoping we can have a dry, sunny day,” Osborne said.

Saturday’s game will begin at 1.30pm.

Up and about: Sophie Harmer and Tungamah are ready for a big game this weekend. Photo by Daniel Webb

The winner of the first preliminary final will take on either Tungamah or Katamatite in the grand final, with the second preliminary final set for Tocumwal on Sunday.

Both sides will be hungry for a victory and Tungamah coach Jayanna Sharp said the Bears were keen to get the game started.

“We’re finally back to something we would call full strength, so we’re excited about that,” Sharp said.

“Katamatite are an amazing side, they’re so clean, their shooters have played together for a while, so that’s something we have been working hard on to hopefully get on that early in the game.

“I think it will go goal-for-goal and then whoever can keep composure at the end of the game will have the win.

“It’s just one week at a time, get through Sunday and hopefully be there at the end.”

Sunday’s game will begin at 1.30pm.