So, here it is, the one we’ve all been waiting for. Manchester Thunder will take on Wasps at Wright Robinson, the original Thunderdome, on Saturday in front of a sell out home crowd.
Thunder return to the Wright Robinson for the first time this season for this hotly anticipated fixture. Both sides will undoubtedly be heading into this tie with an understanding that this game is huge. Thunder sneaked to the top of the table last week as Wasps came agonisingly close, but eventually lost out, to Loughborough Lightning to record their second defeat in three games.
The top of the table clash sees Thunder attempt to do the double over Wasps this season, while the Coventry based side will be out for revenge after the Black and Yellows outclassed them on their home turf just a couple of weeks ago.
Given that both sides are level on points, separated on only goal difference, this fixture could break the deadlock and be a decisive turning point in each team’s season and their respective title campaigns.
It is difficult to say what we can expect to see on display on Saturday as there is always an air of ‘anything can happen’ with this fixture. That said, Thunder always seem to bring their A game against Wasps, their understanding of the importance of the match giving them that competitive edge over the reigning champions.
The Thunder crowd, who will of course be in full volume, willing the home side over the line. They will be hoping to see some signature link up play in mid-court along with defensive battles in one semi-circle, and plenty of goals in the other.
Whoever wins this fixture will go three points clear at the top of the table, a prize not to be taken lightly at this stage in the season.
One thing is for sure, it’s set to be a fantastic night of Netball in Manchester.