IN each round we will identify one key match-up, provide an in-depth analysis of both players and compare the two styles.

COLLINGWOOD MAGPIES v. QUEENSLAND FIREBIRDS

GEVA MENTOR (GK) v. LENIZE POTGIETER (GS)

In yet another big battle in the goal circle, this week will see Magpies co-captain, Geva Mentor and new Firebirds recruit Lenize Potgieter go head to head for the first time in Suncorp Super Netball.

Mentor’s skill, precision and international experience against Potgieter is sure to come in handy this round, while her connection with goal defence, April Brandley – who also has experience against Potgieter – will be a big help given Potgieter’s speed and ability with ball in hand. However, Mentor’s unrivalled ability to change the course of a game may have a chance to come to fruition given connections into the Firebirds’ shooting circle may not yet be fully formed. One of the best defenders in the game, Mentor’s ability to read the play and fly of the ball is second to none, so is sure to work in tandem with Brandley and Ash Brazill to force the ball out of the circle and create errors. Mentor also has the speed and cleanliness off the ball to come through for intercepts, while her presence one-on-one can be enough to force turnovers.

Despite her unconventional low release shot on goal, Potgieter was one of the most accurate shooters across the board in the 2019 ANZ Premiership, all but leading Southern Steel to third place with 596 goals at 92 per cent across 13 rounds. Her ability to find space in the circle has been on show in her two rounds of Super Netball, pairing seamlessly with Gretel Tippett to put defenders under a mountain of pressure to cover ground of two dominant roving goalers. Potgieter’s stellar footwork and quick shot denies defenders space and time to get into arms over and rebounding position, giving her a big leg-up to combine with her accuracy to post. With speed and skilled feeders to put the ball into the circle, the Firebirds will hope this match brings the win they have been waiting for.

Though no strangers in international netball, the outcome of this game will inevitably come down to both teams’ connection across the court. If Potgieter and Tippett can continue to be a dominant force at the post the Firebirds may be able to get the job done, however Potgieter’s inexperience in the Super Netball could be an issue coming into this round against arguably the leading goal keeper of the competition in Mentor.