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

GWS GIANTS v. Adelaide Thunderbirds

JO HARTEN (GA) v. LAYLA GUSCOTH (GD)

It is the first time that England Roses teammates Jo Harten and Layla Guscoth will go head-to-head in Suncorp Super Netball. Both players know each other’s game inside out making for an exciting match-up given their skill and sheer talent.

Harten has had to adapt her game plan to fit with the new look goal circle in the GIANTS with Australian Diamonds captain Caitlin Bassett owning the goal shooter bib. But Harten has proven that she is not afraid to put up the long bomb and turn and shoot. She is a real play maker in the attack end for the GIANTS, creating good leads and using her netball nous to get rid of her opponent. Her quick hands and clever footwork is second to none making her an ominous threat in the goal circle. Her work with Kim Green and Jamie-Lee Price on the circle edge is a real feature of her game, allowing her to reposition in the circle and attain better shooting position. Harten can turn the game on its head with her strong drives and composed nature. While she does a wealth of work in attack helping to transition down the court and feed into Bassett, her defensive abilities to get her hands to ball and apply strong hands over pressure is equally as impressive. She offers an additional element of physical defensive pressure and helps to clog up the midcourt in transition to slow down her opposition, making her a key player for the GIANTS.

The Adelaide Thunderbirds goal defence will have her work cut out for her up against Harten. Guscoth is renowned for her tagging ability and strength around the contest to win the ball and take her opponent out of the game. She is an underrated defender that plays her role and works well with goal keeper Shamera Sterling in defence for Adelaide. Her skill to stay away from the whistle and remain in play is credit to her ability to read the play and use her silky footwork to get around the body of her opponent. Guscoth is deceptively quick while her hands over pressure is also important in helping to block the vision of her opposition. Her leadership on court and attacking mentality also helps to transition the ball down the court for the Thunderbirds making her an integral player for the side, while her ability to come from space to intercept a vital ball will be pivotal against the likes of Harten.

With the Thunderbirds coming off an important win against the Firebirds, Guscoth will want to inject herself into the game and limit the influence of Harten who has proven that she is a key cog in attack for the GIANTS. On the other hand, Harten will want to get another win for the GIANTS to keep them in the hunt for finals. Expect a tight tussle between the two players given their extensive knowledge of each other’s game plan and assets on court.