IN a full Easter weekend bonanza, there are a couple of clashes this weekend in the NSL that may prove crucial for how the ladder may look come season’s end.

GAME OF THE ROUND

Saracens Mavericks vs Severn Stars

This is an intriguing match up, and one that could prove very crucial for whichever side emerges victorious.

These two are currently fifth and third respectively, with only half a game separating the two sides, so the ladder is tight.

The Stars may have only shot 20 more goals than the Mavericks have, but they have conceded 35 fewer goals, so the respective defensive ends are going to be crucial today.

Up one end, Jasmine Brown, Ella Powell-Davies and Jo Trip are flying as a group so far this season, and that was what perhaps was the final missing puzzle for the Stars.

Up the other end, the strength under the ring of Razia Quashie combined with the aerial ability of Vicki Oyesola makes the Mavericks’ defence varied and complicates any strategies to try and counter them.

THE OTHER MATCHES

Strathclyde Sirens vs Loughborough Lightning

The Sirens’ season can only be described as frustrating, but things may get even worse this week when they have to face a confident Loughborough side.

This one may be a one sided affair, with the Lightning expected to be far too strong.

Leeds Rhinos vs Surrey Storm

This could be a potentially intriguing clash.

The Rhinos will be frustrated they got so close but so far to beating the Pulse last week, while the Storm are starting to get some momentum going after a bit of an inconsistent start to the year.

Manchester Thunder vs Team Bath

If Bath had a choice of when to play the Thunder, this week probably would not have been it.

The Thunder will come out with a particularly strong hunger this week after suffering their first loss this week, and Bath will be down on confidence a little after being well beaten by the Storm.

Cardiff Dragons vs London Pulse

This is the other clash that could also potentially be match of the round.

On the one hand you have a Cardiff side who got a shot of confidence in the arm last week with a win over the Stars, and on the other hand there is a Pulse side who almost blew it against the Rhinos last week.