Jostling for superiority through all of last season, the clubs were on a crash course for a grand final meeting before COVID-19 brought a premature end to proceedings.
Heading into the 2022 season as the two premiership favourites, both teams have shown their class, setting themselves up nicely in second and third spot.
Now given an excellent opportunity to make a major statement in the premiership race, Rumbalara coach Jess Bamblett said her team was up for the challenge.
“We are very excited as a team, but apprehensive too as it is our first game against them this year and we don’t know who they’ve got or how they’re playing,” Bamblett said.
“Right now we are just trying to stay positive and be in the moment by taking it one week at a time, so for us prior form doesn’t mean too much.
“We just head over there excited for the challenge and expecting a tough four quarters of netball.”
While Rumbalara comes into this clash in sparkling form, winning its past six games, the same cannot be said of the Purples, having recently drawn with Tongala and been smashed by Deniliquin.
But with a host of stars still set to take the court for the Purples, Bamblett outlined what Rumba would need to do to come away with a victory.
“It is just going to have to be a team effort from start to finish,” she said.
“We can’t worry about what they’re doing, we just need to stick to our game plan, defensively and offensively.
“I think it is going to be a hard-fought match that will go down to the very last whistle.”
Presenting as the headline act for a day of cultural celebration and recognition at Nathalia Recreation Reserve, Bamblett said it was an honour to play on such a special occasion.
“I think it is a fantastic opportunity for not only us as an Indigenous club, but for Nathalia in taking that step in embracing Indigenous round and showcasing our culture on their dresses,” she said.
“It is great for the whole Murray league to have a day like this and we can’t wait to get out on the court on this special round.”
Around the courts, Tongala will be hoping to solidify its spot in the top four as it welcomes Barooga to town.
Deniliquin will be looking to extend its unbeaten run to 11 games as it plays host to Echuca United.
After securing its second win of the season, Cobram will take new-found confidence into its home game against Mulwala.
Having lost its past eight matches, Finley will be eyeing off a return to the winners’ list as it travels to Numurkah.
Moama welcomes Congupna as it looks to put further pressure on the top four.
