IN each round we will identify one key match-up, provide an in-depth analysis of both players and compare the two styles. In the major semi-final we look at the midcourt battle between two talented centres.

SUNSHINE COAST LIGHTNING v. NSW SWIFTS

Laura Langman (C) v. Paige Hadley (C)

In the first game of the semi-finals both the Lightning and Swifts will want to get off to a flying start and pose a dominant threat. Laura Langman and Paige Hadley are in fine form and have guided their teams to victory in testing conditions throughout the season, while the last time these two sides met no stone was left unturned.

The Sunshine Coast centre is a mastermind on the court using the angles and a variety of passes to slice through the opposition defence. Langman’s gut running, experience and vision into the circle provides the Lightning goalers with first access, making her integral to the sides success. While her work in attack is impressive her defensive pressure is second to none, cutting off her opponents’ drives and smothering their every movement to deny easy access into the circle and build pressure. Langman is composed with ball in hand, able to assess all her options within the three seconds and dispose of the ball easily. Her partnership with Laura Scherian in the attacking third is key with the two able to create space with their dynamic movement and strength.

Hadley has relished the extra space since moving out to centre with her dynamic movement and defensive pressure an asset for the Swifts right across the court. Her ability to thread the needle into Sam Wallace, Helen Housby and Sophie Garbin has been very important in the Swifts’ rise to the top. Hadley is not afraid to put her body on the line to win the loose ball while her transition down the court is hard to stop, credit to her quick hands and speed. She has showcased her netball knowledge to position cleverly at the top of the circle or deep in the pocket to claim good feeding position.

Given that both midcourt players have high endurance and ooze class it will be a compelling duel. Both Langman and Hadley are pivotal in bringing the ball down the court along with applying that added defensive pressure to cause turnovers. But if Langman can get on top of Hadley early in the game by pushing her wide, covering her drives and applying hands over pressure the Lightning could surge ahead.