It is what every player dreams of, a Premiership. That dream is still alive for the four remaining teams kicking off the 2013 Premier Division Finals this weekend. Darebin and Diamond Creek have earned the double chance and will fight for a direct pass to the Grand Final on Sunday at Coburg. Melbourne Uni and Eastern Devils will open the proceedings on Saturday as they square off in the Elimination Final.
Darebin have to be the favourites heading into this weekend. Virtually untouchable in a season in which they have gone undefeated, the Falcons dominated the Creekers the last time they met this season to the tune of 144 points. But as Diamond Creek proved in the decider last year, it will be down to which side produces their best on the day.
Both are similar in their approach, wanting to run the ball and both are skillful. They are the top two for a reason. Both have players in their line-ups that are the best in the league, the two clear above the rest are Daisy Pearce and Steph Chiocci. Such is the quality of the midfields, clamping down on the forwards must be a priority for both teams. Finals contests are not renowned for being free scoring shootouts, but this might prove exception to the rule. Darebin should win, but it will not be one-way traffic.
Saturday’s Elimination Final is a much more difficult one to predict as Melbourne University will take on Eastern Devils. Both had the chance to have a dress rehearsal of sorts as they played each other just last weekend. The Mugars will go in full of confidence after downing the Devils by one point. This is arguably the game of the weekend.
Much of the Devils’ success has come from its forward line that contains the likes of Moana Hope, Sarah D’Arcy and Shelley Beggs. Kicking a winning score will not be beyond them this weekend. Their opponents are brash, young and have little fear of anybody in them. Emma Kearney has been their standout performer, that should be the case again this weekend. Two contrasting sides, the Devils have a great blend of youth and experience around with the likes of Lou Wotton and Meg Hutchins, while the Mugars line-up are youthful. Both have plenty of reasons to be confident, and with their seasons on the line, it should be amazing viewing.
Last Modified on 24/07/2013 20:01