IN each round of the ANZ Premiership we will identify one key match-up, provide an in-depth analysis of both players and compare the two styles. The next battle sees a couple of Silver Ferns teammates match up against each other in a battle of first verse fourth.

CENTRAL PULSE v. MAINLAND TACTIX
Ameliaranne Ekenasio (GA) v. Jane Watson (GD)

Accustomed to each other’s game style playing in the Silver Ferns together the contest between goal attack Ameliaranne Ekenasio and goal defence Jane Watson will be enthralling to say the least. Both players are integral for their respective side with the Pulse relying on Ekenasio to set the tone in attack with her composure with ball in hand and general netball smarts while Watson is a real barometer for the Tactix.

Ekenasio has been in scintillating form throughout the season knocking back 17 goals from 20 attempts last round at 85 per cent. Her effortless movement, dynamic footwork and vision into the circle is on constant display often leaving many fans in awe with her skill to see two passes ahead. She is often unfazed by the physicality in the goal circle and in fact thrives off the added pressure to stand up and deliver for her side. Her connection with Aliyah Dunn is one of sheer class with the two able to link up with ease and rotate through the space to ensure an easy avenue to goal. Renowned for her well-weighted passes into the circle and heavy load at the centre pass Ekenasio is one to watch by the Tactix as she can cause a ruckus within the blink of an eye. If given enough time and space the Pulse goal attack can carve up the defence with her impressive accuracy and high volume of shots to constantly keep the defenders on high alert. Her connection with Dunn is not the only element the Tactix should be worried about, as her combination with youngster Maddy Gordon and the experienced Claire Kersten is also impressive. The midcourt duo often create a wealth of space to allow Ekenasio to glide into the circle and sink shots whether it be from close range or on the circle edge. Standing at 186cm Ekenasio oozes versatility to play the holding shooter role, or a moving goaler depending on the need of the team.

The Tactix captain is no easy beat with her tenacity and hunt for the ball on constant display. Although commonly seen in goal keeper with the Ferns, Watson is just as dominant out in goal defence enjoying the extra space to ply her defensive trade and win ball back. Her three-foot marking and ability to shadow her opposition every step of the way is a key component of her game, slowly wearing the goal attack down and nullifying their influence both under the post and in transition. Her cleanliness at the contest is another important feature of her game, able to stay in play and mount pressure on the goaler to force turnovers. But it is her threatening combination with goal keeper Temalisi Fakahokotau that is even more concerning as the two feed off each other’s intensity and can stop an attacking unit in their tracks credit to their immense pressure. Strong in defence, Watson’s work on the attack is just as impressive often driving through the midcourt to pierce through the opposition’s defence to try and create forward forays alongside Charlotte Elley and Kimiora Poi.

Watson will have to go toe-to-toe with Ekenasio throughout the game and not sag off to double team Dunn to ensure Ekenasio is held accountable across the four quarters. If the Tactix captain can maintain a high intensity and force Ekenasio out of her comfort zone they will have the upper hand, however Ekenasio is not easily ruffled given her calm nature and experience. It will be battle of inches with both players boasting a wealth of netball knowledge and strong connections across the court.