The Southern Steel has everything to play for against the Queensland Firebirds in Brisbane tomorrow afternoon. Netball writer Robert van Royen answers three questions before the final round of the regular season.
Q How can the Steel qualify for the playoffs?
A To put it simply, beat the Firebirds. That way, it will not matter if the Pulse, which also has eight competition points, beats the Thunderbirds in Adelaide.
The Steel has a far superior goal difference to the Pulse, meaning the Steel will almost certainly advance if it wins.
However, it will also advance if both New Zealand teams lose.
Yes, that means the Steel could make the playoffs with three wins, two draws and seven losses.
Q What chance does the Steel have in Brisbane tomorrow?
A The Steel's record against the Australian conference leaders does not make for pretty reading (one win from seven matches), and it is going to take a mighty effort to topple the Firebirds.
With the Australian franchise boasting a record of 10 wins, one draw and one loss, the sides' respective fortunes could hardly be more different.
However, the Steel can take heart from the fact it has pushed some of the competition's other heavyweights to the brink this season.
Coach Janine Southby has been seeking a 60-minute performance all season, and she will need it if the Steel is beat the Firebirds, who will also be defending the Challenge Trophy.
Q What happens if the Steel qualifies for the playoffs?
A Whether the Steel extends its season with a win or a loss, it can only clinch the third and final playoff spot in the New Zealand conference.
That would see it play the Waikato-Bay of Plenty Magic in Hamilton next weekend, the winner advancing to play the Northern Mystics, the New Zealand conference champions, in Auckland in a fortnight.
Steel v Firebirds
Brisbane, tomorrow, 4.20pm
Head to head: Played 7, Steel 1, Firebirds 6.
Greatest winning margins: Steel 2, Firebirds 16.
