Harcourts coach Kelly Sargent says her team only has to think back 12 months to understand the dangers of underestimating Wairarapa College heading into their Netball Wairarapa premier one grand final match in Masterton this Saturday.
Harcourts were also warm favourites in last year's final but were forced to fighttooth and nail to secure a three-goal victory.
"They tend to hit peak form at this time of the season and we certainly can't afford any complacency," Sargent said. "Yes, I'd expect us to win but it won't be any cakewalk, not by a long shot."
Sargent anticipates Wairarapa College will seek to impose a physical presence on Harcourts as they did during their comfortable win over Pioneer Blue in their semifinal encounter last weekend.
"We know they won't be intimidated, that they'll have no trouble muscling up," she said.
"It shouldn't worry us too much though, we should have the experience to cope."
The likelihood is that Harcourts will have to take the court without goal defence Eleina Mitchell, who is batting an ankle injury but they will have the services of Sargent.
She was to have an operation on a wrist this week but that has been delayed until next month and she will probably start at goal shoot with the reliable Geraldine Carroll at goal attack.
Talented youngster Renee Cummings will be at wing defence with Sarah Watson at goal keep and Shontella Renata at goal defence. And at centre will be arguably the most influential player in Wairarapa, Katie Wyeth.
Harcourts also have the benefit of a strong bench with Powhiri Gemmell, Kay Slater and Sam Woodhouse all likely to join the action at some stage.
The Carterton club has four teams seeking trophies.
Carterton New World Lynx will meet Makoura College for the premier one reserve title, Carterton New World Red will play Wairarapa College B for the premier two title, Carterton New World White will meet Featherston Black Sox in the premier four decider and Carterton New World Social will contest the senior A final against Hiona.
An interesting member of the Carterton Social line-up is Janeen Bruce who is better known for her hockey exploits, having represented Wairarapa, Wellington and Canterbury.
