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

New South Wales Swifts vs. Sunshine Coast Lightning

HELEN HOUSBY (GA) v. KARLA PRETORIUS (GD)

Both players are integral players for their respective sides with Helen Housby a real play maker for the Swifts in attack, while Karla Pretorius is renowned for her go-go gadget arms and intercepting ability.

Housby is the more traditional goal attack who graces across the court and uses her dynamic footwork to open up the goal circle. Her ability to turn and shoot ensures that she draws the attention of a defender and allows her partner in crime Sam Wallace a one on one. Housby is renowned for her strong drives and cuts at the top of the goal circle and does a wealth of work outside of the circle to move the ball into a more damaging position for her side. though her attacking work is impressive her ability to get back and help in defence is equally impressive applying strong three feet pressure and picking up the occasional deflection and intercept credit to her hard work across the court. Housby is a real general in attack for the Swifts and uses the ball well to time her passes into the goal circle. Though at times she can go missing throughout the game she has innate ability to pop up at crucial stages in the game and take it by the scruff of the neck to help regain control for her side.

On the other hand, Pretorius attacks the ball hard and has an exceptional ability to read the flight of the ball. She is deceptively quick and has long arms which allows her to get timely deflections on the ball. Her ability to get cleanly around the body of her opposition is second to none and pairs well with new defensive partner Phumza Maweni judging when to go hunting for a high cross court ball or doubling back on an opponent. Pretorius constantly harasses her opponent, not allowing an inch of space and uses the ball well. She also offers a great offensive element to the Lightning, driving hard through the midcourt to act as a reset player in attack.

Each player has a very different style with Pretorius known to do the flashy things, while Housby is much more controlled and composed in her game play. But if Pretorius can nullify the influence of Housby expect the Lightning to have a big game as they will starve the Swifts of opportunity under the post.