Eastern Suburbs are on the verge of qualifying for next month’s Grand Final of the Women’s National League — but who are they likely to face in the winner-takes-all showdown?
The Lilywhites could book their spot in the final with a win this weekend (they play bottom side Central Football), if Northern Rovers drop any points in their game against second-to-bottom Capital Football.
Main photo: Rebekah Van Dort … leads the tightest defence in the competition. Photo: Shane Wenzlick / Phototek.
Regardless, if Suburbs don’t confirm their final berth this weekend, chances are it’ll come in the next round, as they chase the very real prospect of going through the league programme with a 100% winning record.
On every level, Suburbs have been superior — easily the most potent goalscorers (37), the tightest defence (conceding only eight goals) and having the depth of squad to rotate players when necessary.
The question is whether either Western Springs or Northern Rovers can match them.
Springs head to Christchurch on Sunday to play past title holders Canterbury United Pride who have been inconsistent this term but who are quite capable of winning this one.
If that happens, it opens the door to Rovers who should beat Capital at Petone.
Here’s the schedule for the weekend:
Fixtures
Games to be played on Saturday November 12, 2022
Central Football v Eastern Suburbs
Massey University, Palmerston North, 12pm
Capital Football v Northern Rovers
Petone Memorial Park, Petone, 2pm
Games to be played on Sunday November 13, 2022
Canterbury United Pride v Western Springs
English Park, Christchurch, 1pm
Auckland United v Southern United
Keith Hay Park, Mt Roskill, 1.45pm
Standings
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