The opening round of the Milleen Group Women’s Premiership last week was not quite the start the competition had hoped for.
Central Newcastle stole a point after managing a draw against a rusty reigning premiers Maitland side, who entered the competition without a trial for reasons all too prominent.
An underperforming Lakes United outfit got belted by a red-hot South Newcastle side who simply out-enthused the competition favourites.
Western Suburbs, meanwhile, won by forfeit over the Hawks, who have been hampered by restrictions from the March release of the women’s by-laws, which have crippled their campaign.
This week’s matches
Lakes United vs Western Suburbs | Saturday, Cahill Oval, 10:45am
Lakes go into this one a bit more focused after receiving an ego check at the hands of Souths. The talent is beyond question, but the execution is lacking.
Matilda Jones makes her return in Seagulls colours after missing the majority of last season through injury, with Lauren Filip elevated into the starting side after being one of Lakes’ most consistent performers last week.
Western Suburbs are expected to field a different side to the one named, with a few Knights inclusions looming in what shapes as the acid test for Noel Topou’s side.
Wests will need to maximise possession through ball control and by doing the small things right defensively. It shapes as a trial by fire, but if Lakes perform like they did last week, it leaves the door open for a Rosellas ambush.
Central Newcastle vs Northern Hawks | Saturday 1:45pm, St John Oval
Central had the weight of possession last week but struggled to crack the Maitland defence. In saying that, their own defensive line remained strong against the likes of Carter, Van Wyk and Metcalf.
In frightening news for the Hawks, Central captain Monica Morris may have played her best game in two seasons and appears to be running into career-best form.
For the Hawks, they are playing against both Central and the weight of by-laws from the governing body, which is like pulling a 50kg weighted sled behind you every time you take a carry. They are able to field 17 players this week, but their depth will again be challenged.
Purely on the weight of numbers, Central should win this one.
South Newcastle vs Maitland | Sunday 10:45am, Townson Oval
Souths were on last week, back to their attacking best against a lacklustre Lakes outfit. Maitland had their first genuine hit-out and looked a touch clunky, which is to be expected.
Maitland will be without Anika Butler in this one, which is a huge loss.
The centre battle between Stokes and Haas Quinlan is one to watch, while Lacey Hickson returns from suspension for the Pickers following a big off-season.
This one looms as a fascinating contest. Souths are riding high, while Maitland continue to battle huge depth issues due to the by-laws.
Souths are yet to beat Maitland in either regular season or finals football.
Is this the circuit breaker for the Lions, or does Maitland’s dominance over the Red V continue?
By the end of this round, we should have a much clearer indication of who is genuine finalists, who needs work, and who may already be fighting to keep their season alive in the Milleen Group Women’s Premiership.
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