IN each round of Suncorp Super Netball we will identify key match-ups, provide an analysis of players and compare the two styles. The final round of the home and away season sees the top two sides go head to head with the battle in the centre between Kate Moloney and Laura Langman expected to set the tone for their respective sides.

SUNSHINE COAST LIGHTNING v. MELBOURNE VIXENS
Laura Langman (C) v. Kate Moloney (C)

Neither Langman or Moloney are known for their desire to take a backwards step, and instead they are often applauded for their hustle and grind to constantly win ball back. They are both barometers for their side, able to stand up when needed and have an influence.

Coming off a surprise loss last round the Vixens, led by captain, Moloney, will be hoping to get back onto the winners list and rekindle that dominant form that saw them notch up the minor premiership two rounds ago. Without partner in crime, Liz Watson, Moloney has had to step up her attacking game in recent weeks, to feed the ball into the likes of Caitlin Thwaites, Tegan Philip and Mwai Kumwenda under the post. Her 1-2 punch around circle edge and speed off the mark makes her an effective option while her gut running is unquestionable, frequently contesting every ball that comes her way. Moloney’s on court leadership is paramount to the Vixens both in attack and defence as she is often that driving force and integral link between the two thirds. She is a real dogged style of player, in the sense that she does not allow her opponent any space and rides every pass. Her defensive attributes are clear, able to create tips and deflections such is her read of the play while her never say die attitude often sparks her teammates around her.

Much like a fine wine, Langman continues to get better with age and is a key cog for the Lightning. When she is firing Sunshine Coast are just about unstoppable with the centre able to break through the defence with great ease and penetrate into the circle in the blink of an eye. Her athleticism and endurance is almost unmatched, able to run rings around her opponents while her experience allows her to bring out all the tricks in the book. However it is the connection with Steph Wood that is the most damaging with the duo able to set the court alight with their dynamic movement, speed and netball nous to weave their way down the court. Langman is a real general in attack able to create something out of nothing and most importantly is not afraid to go back and reset to allow the Lightning frontend in Cara Koenen, Laura Scherian and Wood to re-position. The New Zealand veteran is damaging in attack but so too down back with her hands over pressure, ability to read the play and pick off an intercept, while her skill to transition in a heartbeat can often catch opposition teams off-guard.

It will be a hotly contested tussle in the centre with both players possessing very similar attributes and game play given their defensive tendencies. Any cross court passes will play into the hands of Langman, with the centre renowned for her ability to peel off and go hunting meaning the Vixens will have to be meticulous especially in attack if they are to get the chocolates. However if the two captains nullify each other it will be up to the players around them to step up and lead the pack which could be tricky for the minor premiers if Watson misses out again this round.