The high-flying Onyx has accounted for Macleay (66-20) and Coffs Harbour (40-33) in their earlier fixtures and faces hosts Nambucca Valley in Macksville this weekend.

“It is technically Nambucca’s round, but their new courts are not ready,” Noble told the Port News.

“Nambucca is a consistent team and are known to really pressure their opponents.

“They also have a couple of experienced and accurate shooters, which will place extra demands on our defenders.”

In order to maintain their winning momentum, the Onyx will do so without Mel Bowler and Kate Lister.

“Alana van der Linden and Kate MacInnes work beautifully together in the shooting end, so while we’ll miss Mel (Bowler) it shouldn’t impact too badly on our team,” Noble explained.

“Kate (Lister) moves well in the centre court, however Emily Lewis and Rochelle Foran, who have both stepped up from last year’s under 17s, boast great form and create an exciting combination.

“This weekend’s game is so important for us, as it will take us one step closer to hosting the finals.

“That is an outcome we need, for so many more reasons now.”

Hastings Valley Onyx –

Shannon Noble, Alana van der Linden, Emily Lewis, Larissa Matheson, Naomi Haylett, Kate MacInnes, Rochelle Foran, Kellie Mann