Melbourne Uni has the enormous task of attempting to put an end to the unbeaten run of Bendigo Thunder, in this week’s VWFL Premier Division Semi Final.
The game, which will see the winner gain an automatic spot in the 2016 Grand Final at Piranha Park, Coburg on September 18, is predicted to fall in favor of Bendigo, after they won all 15 of their matches this season.
The Thunder finished one spot above Melbourne Uni and registered six more wins for the season. But while the side go in as favorites, they were only able to overcome their upcoming opponents by three points last time they met in Round 14.
Bendigo stars Jessica Kennedy and Emma Grant led their side to success in that tight contest two weeks ago and, along with Cassandra Blakeway, have been the most consistent performers all year.
Isabella Ayre was also a major factor in the Thunder’s dominance this season, with an outstanding 34 goals in 8 games. Ayre slotted two against Melbourne Uni last game and will be one to look out for this weekend.
Alexandra Saundry and Kathryn Klatt were the standout players for Melbourne Uni in that three-point loss, and will need to step up once again if their side are any chance of causing an upset win.
One of Melbourne Uni’s biggest strengths this season was their even spread of contributors throughout the campaign.
Caitlin Honey, Alexandra Gittings, Justine Hocking, Leah Caluzzi and Alexandra Saundry were their most consistent and Ruby Grounds topped the goal kicking tally with 13.
While the winner goes on to cement a chance for the ultimate prize in two weeks’ time, the loser will have to face the winner of this week’s Elimination Final between Port Melbourne Colts and Deer Park.
Port Melbourne earned their spot in the Elimination Final after finishing in third spot on the ladder, with eight wins and seven losses.
Paige Holt, Jade Stoneman and Stacey Livingston – who also won the goalkicking with 21 – have been the Colt’s best this season. Mandy Seath also proved to be a handy contributor, by registering a record of a goal a game.
Deer Park finished one spot below Melbourne Uni and won just one less game than their opposition.
The side had stars of their own this season, including Alana Tully, Belinda Hateley, Samantha Radlof and Shannon Mcferran. Chloe Portelli also played a major role in Deer Park’s success with 17 goals for the year.
The game is set to be a tight, unpredictable contest, with the sides producing a mix of results this season.
The tally currently stands at two wins for Port Melbourne and one win for Deer Park, with the last time these sides met in round 11 ending in a 14-point victory for the Colts.
SUNDAY AUGUST 28
10am Port Melbourne Colts v Dee Park - Box Hill City Oval
2pm Bendigo v Melbourne Uni - QEO, Bendigo
Last Modified on 26/08/2016 15:58