After missing the chance to secure a playoff berth last weekend, the Navexa Geelong United Youth League Men (4th, 13-5) will get another opportunity when it heads to Rowville Secondary College for a meeting with finals aspirants Keysborough Cougars (7th, 10-8).
Beating Keysborough, which produced a stunning second half to beat United at Geelong Arena in Round 6, 87-74, carries plenty of incentive for Luke Beard’s men.
Not only will a top-six finish be guaranteed, but Luke Beard’s men will also be a step closer to securing a spot in next year’s Victorian Youth Championship qualifying series and remain in the hunt to grab a top-two spot, which ensures a double-chance in this year’s playoffs.
“The time for talk is over,” Coach Beard said. ” “We know what we need to do and we need to go and get it done.”
Pat Johnstone (ankle) is set for a stint on the sidelines. However, Jay Posterino and Jack Moran are both available to take on the Cougars.
Meanwhile, the Navexa Geelong United Youth League Women face a tough task in their penultimate home game of the season.
United hosts the unbeaten Eltham at Geelong Arena, with the Wildcats’ 18 wins coming by an average of 31 points per game.
When the two teams met in Eltham’s gym in Round 6, the Wildcats came out on top 88-52 after putting the game to bed with a 24-4 second quarter.
Casidhe Green (18 points) and captain Vanessa Marsh (13) were the lone double-figure scorers on that occasion.
They will need plenty of support if United is to cause an upset and end Eltham’s hopes of going through the season unbeaten.
Tickets for the Youth League Women’s matchup with Eltham are part of the NBL1 game night and can be purchased here bit.ly/3pqEQRA
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