They have been arguably two of the top outfits in the Kyabram District League home and away season for the past few years and now Shepparton East and Tallygaroopna will get a chance to renew their rivalry this weekend.
Both sit unbeaten after five rounds to start the A-grade campaign, as they did this time last year ― before they met in round six and walked away with a thrilling 35-apiece draw.
East would go on to claim the minor premiership before Tallygaroopna knocked it out in the preliminary final before Fiona Down and her outfit claimed a memorable grand final win.
There might not be as much at stake when the two ladder leaders meet in round six at Central Park this weekend, yet that won’t mean the contest out on court won’t be at fever pitch.
Shepparton East coach Erynn Hueston has had an eye on this encounter for some weeks.
“We’re expecting a very intense and physical game, but at the same time it’s great to match up with them because we want to be playing against the best and finding out where we are at,” Hueston said.
The unique similarities between Tallygaroopna and Shepparton East aren’t just held to their home and away record.
Both mentors revealed that the main focus in the past five weeks had been on figuring out the optimal combinations in their respective sides.
Speaking after last week’s win over Longwood, Down highlighted what had been front and centre on her mind in recent weeks.
“We’re still rotating some combinations and trying to find which ones will take us through the season,” the Tally premiership mentor said.
“We are very lucky in the fact we have got a significant number of players at our disposal.
“Right through our grades we have a number of them knocking on the door and it’s been quite nice to provide players with development opportunities.
“Georgia Foster has come to the club and has slotted into our midcourt.
“We’ve got some options at our disposal thanks to our versatility which is always nice.”
Hueston revealed what had been driving her side’s development to start 2023.
“We’ve been trying to establish new combinations across the court and it’s been coming together really well. We’ve also been focusing on being consistent and running out four quarters,” she said.
“Bec Rendina has been solid in midcourt, Maddison Newey in goals has been settling in quite well and adjusted to the pace in A-grade. She’s formed a good combination with Kara (Pattison) in goals.”
Shepparton East and Tallygaroopna will clash on Sunday, at Central Park Recreation Reserve.