IN each round of Suncorp Super Netball we will identify key match-ups, provide an analysis of players and compare the two styles. This week sees a couple of international names take the court against each other in the goal circle in tantalising battles for Rounds 2 and 3. 

SUNSHINE COAST LIGHTNING V. COLLINGWOOD MAGPIES

Steph Wood (GA) v. Jodi-Ann Ward (GD)

Two highly talented players will take the court in the circle together for the first time in Suncorp Super Netball, with Jamaican import Jodi-Ann Ward taking on Diamonds goaler Steph Wood in what Draft Central sees as one of the matchups of the round. The two players have plenty of intensity and skill, making for a formidable head to head given the player who gets the upper hand will probably be the key to either side winning. 

Wood is a highly accurate goaler with plenty of smooth moving and the ability to not only step up to the plate but also absorb the pressure out the front, constantly opening up space and using her vision to spot Peace Proscovia and Cara Koenen at the post. Wood tore up the rulebook with her clean hands and accuracy to post last round, sinking long bombs from left, right and centre in her attempts to even up the scoreline. Wood did more than just even the scores though, with her effort seeing the Lightning well and truly blow the Firebirds out of the water credit to her super shot accuracy. Able to find space with ease and point and shoot, Wood rotated between goal attack and wing attack where required with her skillset allowing her to transition between the two positions with ease.

Ward is a tough defender with plenty of potential and star power in her first season at SSN level. While she was not the cleanest on court last round she well and truly matched up with her opposition and was able to create some impressive turnover ball credit to her hands over pressure and second attempt at the deflection. Her speed in and around the circle allowed her to cut off her attacker but also saw her generate a heap of attention from the umpires, with her physicality drawing plenty of whistle though certainly helping to dissuade her opposition from going to post. With her first taste of SSN out of the way Ward could be a huge factor in this game, with her ability to get hands to ball allowing her to be a critical cog driving the ball up the court. Her combination with Geva Mentor can only improve from now, with the duo hoping to interrupt any smooth movement generated by the Lightning.

While Wood does not necessarily like a physical opposition she is more than capable of playing through it, with the real question of whether she can back up her Round 1 effort or if Ward can get in her head and use her rangy arms to block vision and deny easy access to goal. With both players able to ply their trade outside the circle just as well as inside, there is potential we will see the duo go head to head across multiple positions making for an exciting match on Saturday.

Other notable matchups across Round 2 will see Caitlin Bassett take on Shamera Sterling while also in the goal circle the likes of Round 1 MVPs Lauren Moore and Alice Teague-Neeld go head to head on Sunday. Also this weekend is the intriguing battle between Liz Watson and Gabi Simpson with both players in ripping form. Coming up in Round 3 – less than two days later – is an enticing matchup between Stacey Francis and Jo Harten before Romelda Aiken takes on Mentor, with both matches played on Tuesday evening. Wednesday will see a huge circle battle of Lenize Potgieter and Sarah Klau while the last match of the round pits centres Kate Moloney and Laura Langman against each other.