ACU Sovereigns’ match against Melbourne University marks the third game in a week for Victorian Netball League competition.

There is plenty on the line for what is the third-last round of the season. 

Lightning is one game off championship division top-four pace. Sovereigns are out to test how much they have improved – when they last met Lightning, a round-seven match in early March, Lightning dealt out a 39-goal thrashing.

And Lightning enters this clash off a one-goal loss to top-four contender Boroondara.

During the past week the Sovereigns have been really competitive but dropped winnable matches to Monash University last Wednesday and Geelong on Sunday.

Sovereigns assistant coach Kate McMahon said the players had taken great individual steps in their games and teamwork.

“Players like Erin Riley – she had a great game against Geelong and you can see she is starting to put into practice all the things she has been learning,” McMahon said.

“We are starting to put on better consistency and better intensity.

“Melbourne Uni is on fire ... our focus is about us and our capability, whether players can apply everything we’ve been teaching them

“Ultimately, we’re working towards next year.”

Sovereigns expect to receive late notice on whether they have access to Melbourne Vixens-listed goaler Carla Dziwoki, and have planned either way accordingly.

They have a full squad for the match after just a light recovery between matches this week.

Meanwhile, Sovereigns’ 19/unders are playing to keep their top-four footing.

McMahon said the club’s senior ranks had been impressed with the exciting brand the team had been playing.

Their next two rivals – Melbourne University and Boroondara – are lowly ranked in the 19s, then Sovereigns face finals contenders Southern Saints in the final round.

melanie.whelan@fairfaxmedia.com.au

MATCH DETAILS

SOVEREIGNS v MELBOURNE UNIVERSITY

WHAT: Victorian Netball League

WHERE: State Netball Hockey Centre

WHEN: Wednesday night

• Championship division, 8.20pm

• Division one, 9.40pm

• 19/unders, 7pm