AFTER a weekend where the combined margin across the four Suncorp Super Netball (SSN) games was 15 points, the next set of fixtures promises plenty more close clashes. Though surprises may be in store yet, it is safe to say there will be plenty of entertainment this weekend. 

The ladder at the moment is just as tight, but may not be for much longer if some teams don’t get a move on. 

This weekend’s action begins in Adelaide with the Thunderbirds hosting the Firebirds. 

Both teams are coming off confidence boosting wins, but history and form suggest a Thunderbirds win. However, the Firebirds at their best can match it with the competition’s elite. It just has not always shown on court. 

Remi Kamo is going to have one of the toughest challenges of her young SSN career, having to tackle the might of Eleanor Cardwell. Up the other end, Emily Moore will have a similar challenge, keeping pace with the in-form Matilda Garrett.

Tomorrow’s second clash is in Perth, with the West Coast Fever taking on the NSW Swifts. 

Even though the Swifts won last weekend and the Fever did not, there are factors at play that mean their respective form will likely flip.

The Fever generally come out even more fired up after a loss, and combine that with a vocal Perth crowd, it is a tough task for the Swifts to take on.

This clash will see a battle of the tall Jamaican goal shooters, with Romelda Aiken and Jhaniele Fowler spearheading their teams towards what they are hoping will be a win.

Fast forward to Sunday, and the day’s opening game is on the Sunshine Coast as the Lightning take on the Vixens – two sides have had quite the battles over the past few years.

The matchup between Mwai Kumwenda and Kadie-Ann Dehaney shapes as a fascinating one to watch. The Vixens’ midcourters are going to have to be clever in how they get the ball to Kumwenda to avoid the intercept prowess of Dehaney.

The weekend ends in Melbourne with a match between the Magpies and GIANTS, and if last time around is anything to go by we are in for a tight one.

Both teams will be keen to get their seasons going, adding extra stakes to the clash.

No Jo Harten will make things harder for the GIANTS, but an out of form Sophie Garbin may make things slightly easier for those in orange.