IN each round of Suncorp Super Netball we will identify key match-ups, provide an analysis of players and compare the two styles. The grand final ultimately pits the two best teams of the season against one another, and while there are a heap of intriguing battles across the court, we delve into the huge matchup between wing attack Liz Watson and wing defence Jess Anstiss.

MELBOURNE VIXENS v. WEST COAST FEVER
Liz Watson (WA) v. Jess Anstiss (WD)

Expect a huge battle when Watson and Anstiss go toe-to-toe, with the two Australian Diamonds tough players individually but step up a level when they take the court together. While Watson has had a few rounds off with injury she is always a tough player to take on, while Anstiss has gradually stepped up her game towards the latter stages of the season making for a Diamonds call-up. They are both highly versatile players, able to rotate into centre when required, and their respective adaptability in a split second is what makes them such crucial players on court.

Watson is a key cog through the Vixens midcourt and while she missed a couple of late home and away rounds for an ankle injury, has had an extra week off to recuperate and get it in order. A hard worker and dominant wing attack at the worst of times – and arguably one the greatest wing attacks in the world at her best – Watson proves time and time again to be a real game changer out the front with her constant drive down court. Her ability to find targets inside the goal circle with ease is down to her excellent vision and speed down court, forming an excellent one-two punch on circle edge with co-captain, Kate Moloney. Watson’s leadership is evident across the court, constantly providing that option in attack and has the defensive capability to consistently apply hands over pressure and force turnovers with her quick transition. A smooth mover with the ability to burst out of the blocks and create consistent attacking forays, with her quick footwork allowing her to zip around the court and open up space in the goal third. 

Anstiss may not be the most flashy wing defence in the competition, but her consistency is a testament to her great work rate and renewed confidence this season. A speedy option able to zip around the court and generate deflections and pickups, Anstiss is rarely out of the contest and can create a heap of pressure both on and off the ball with her ability to cross the court with speed. A tough competitor with plenty of game smarts, Anstiss is a huge threat when she gets going especially given the calibre of players around her taking some of the pressure off and allowing her to do what she does best, cause chaos. Her ability to anticipate both the loose ball and form a constant buffer to her opposition is credit to her connection and partnership with Stacey Francis, Courtney Bruce and Verity Charles, constantly working in tandem to cover all aspects of the court. Her transition play is also crucial to the Fever, able to flick a switch from defence to attack in a heartbeat such is her netball nous and read of the play. 

In this battle, expect Watson to come out firing, especially knowing how damaging she can be even when carrying an injury and having had a few weeks now to get it right. That being said, Anstiss’ build in form throughout the season makes her a force to be reckoned with, making for a huge battle and seeing both players really have a game on their hands here.