Newcastle City will be out to claim outright second on the women's Black Diamond Cup ladder when they host rivals Cardiff and bid a temporary farewell to No.1 Sportsground on Saturday.
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The three-time defending premiers and the Hawks are on equal terms (24 points) with five matches remaining in the regular season and round eight is expected to be the Blues' last appearance at their traditional headquarters until 2022 as venue upgrades get underway.
"It's definitely one we've been looking forward to this season that's for sure," City women's coach Jon Clark said.
"They [Cardiff] are young, fit and fast so it will definitely be a test for us. And being the last home game at the old No.1 we want to say goodbye with some good memories."
Clark said the Blues' recent 30-point loss to undefeated leaders Killarney Vale (28) was an "eye opener" and he's been pleased with the way his squad has responded.
Personnel wise Caitlin Holcombe has relished her move from half-back to midfield this campaign while skipper Taylor Joyce and all-Australian junior representative Asha Turner-Funk have also impressed.
The inclusion of AFLW player Sarah Halvorsen, who recently re-signed with the Giants for 2021 alongside Nelson Bay's Lisa Steane, has bolstered City's title chances.
"She [Halvorsen] has gone up another level if that's even possible. Her running ability and just being in the right spot," Clark said.
Clare Deegan is unavailable for the Blues.
Cardiff have won five straight but are missing Hayley Hawkins (ankle) while Matisse Coram-Parker (ribs) remains in doubt.
Hawks coach Paul Cooksley said soccer recruits Clare Cummings and Tayla Gregory have taken to the sport "like ducks to water".
Cooksley said he respects City's credentials and "we need to turn up in the right frame of mind because it's not going to be a picnic".
Kick-off is 1pm. The men's clash between the same clubs follows at 3pm.
Killarney Vale-Maitland and Nelson Bay-Wyong Lakes also have double headers. Warners Bay meet Terrigal Avoca (W) and Gosford (M). Singleton host Terrigal Avoca (M).
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