Youth League teams in the home straight

The first half of the season has been consigned to history, and the home straight now looms for the Navexa Geelong United Youth League men and women.

Both teams will face a home-road double in Big V Round 10 action this weekend, where both games are winnable.

For Jason Bannerman’s women, they host Pakenham on Saturday night at Geelong Arena before travelling to Collingwood for a return meeting with the All-Stars.

The Warriors share a 4-7 record with United, while Collingwood – which United defeated comfortably in Round 1 – is 3-7.

“Keeping up our momentum from last week is a must,” Bannerman said.

“Staying focused each quarter will be our goal, both days. I’m looking for our bigs to set a standard Saturday and Sunday. We all need to be accountable.

“If we can get our defensive pressure rolling, we will be able to get more opportunities with the ball in our hands.

“We want both wins for the weekend to keep us in the hunt for finals.”

For Luke Beard’s men, they will be keen to bounce back from last week’s disappointing loss to Sherbrooke, which saw United tumble from third to sixth and in danger of surrendering their top-six spot.

They face Bendigo on Saturday night before joining the women in heading to Collingwood on Sunday, where Beard should have a full list to select from.

United had the better of the Braves by 14 points in Round 4 in Bendigo but surrendered a 15-point third-quarter lead in an 82-76 loss to the All-Stars at Leisuretime Sports Precinct in Round 1.

“We really need to lock back in and go two from two this weekend,” Beard said.“We know we have the talent and depth, but it is now time to show it on the court consistently.“We had a mid-season meal and chat Monday, and we all understand what we want to do as a collective.“I’m excited to have the opportunity to get back on our home court too.”

Jack Moran will be available on Saturday night, with Beard having a full roster to pick from on Sunday.