IN each round we will identify one key match-up and provide an in-depth analysis of both players and compare the two styles. This week, it’s Vixen Renae Ingles against Magpie Kelsey Browne.

Melbourne Vixens v. Collingwood Magpies

Renae Ingles (WD) v. Kelsey Browne (WA)

It will be an exciting match-up between former Australian Diamond, Renae Ingles and current Australian Diamond Kelsey Browne with both midcourt players set to do battle this weekend.

Kelsey Browne is renowned for her dynamic footwork around the circle edge while her ability to pierce through the defence of her opposition is second to none. She does a wealth of work over the transverse line to bring the ball down the court and feed into shooters Shimona Nelson and Nat Medhurst. Though she has struggled at times through the season her ability to work her way into the game and toil hard is a real asset of her game. Browne uses her clever placement to position well on the circle to be a damaging prospect for the Magpies. Her connections with Kim Ravaillion through the midcourt is also imperative in helping to create space in the attacking third and setting up scoring forays. The addition of New Zealand Silver Fern Kimiora Poi has added another element to her game showcasing her general netball knowledge to adapt to her game style and still have an influence around the circle edge. The use of quick hands to continuously fire passes into the goal circle keeps defenders guessing making her a damaging prospect for the Magpies if she can find space. Though she is small in stature it is her speed and ability to control the ball that makes her such an influential player in the Magpies frontline.

Renae Ingles is imperative in the Vixens defence with her hands over pressure and deceptive reach to block the vision of her opponent. Her intent to hunt the ball and limit the influence of her opponent goes a long way in diminishing the attacking capacity of her opposition making her a key player for the Vixens. While her defensive efforts are solid it is her drive through the midcourt that is equally as important providing constant back up on the transverse line and using her vision to bomb the ball into the attacking third. Ingles’ pressure out the front on the ball carrier allows her circle defenders Emily Mannix and Jo Weston to come out hunting and capitalise on any loose balls. Her timely tips and ability to read the play makes her a constant threat for her opposition.

Both players have a plethora of skills and are integral to their respective sides given their drive through the midcourt and ability to win ball back. If Ingles can apply good strong hands over pressure and block Browne’s vision it will help to limit her impact in attack and the speed in which the ball is going into Nelson.