Second placed Parkes United host top of the table Lithgow Panthers in what is shaping as a possible grand final preview.

Panthers are undefeated so far this season and are the benchmark team of the womens competition. 

They have drawn twice with United one of the teams to match the competition favourites.

Parkes sit 10 points behind Lithgow with 11 wins, two losses and three draws from their 16 games this season.

Lithgow have the ability to score goals from the slightest of opportunities and will keep the United defence on their toes tomorrow.

An integral part of that defence, which has only allowed 19 goals this season, has been the impressive form of goalkeeper Amy Thornberry.

Thornberry has been a standout performer in a team that has seen a number of players rise to prominence this season.

Parkes’ improved defensive structure, implemented by first-year coach Aaron Huppatz, has been a major factor in the side’s rise from fighting to avoid the wooden spoon last season to competing for title this year.

Huppatz will miss tomorrow’s match but will be hoping his side can maintain stick to their game plan in both attack and defence, something he has been working on with the team at training.

Louise Hawken and Cass Hodges will lead the United attack and have both been in good goal-scoring form this season.

They have been well supported by midfielders Niamh Dixon, Wendy Rix and Denise Gersbach.

Huppatz has been able to select a strong side for the top of the table clash with only Jess Ross unavailable.

He will expect his senior players to take control out on the field and give plenty of direction to their team-mates.

A United win would give the team a major confidence boost as they head into the semi-finals.

The team for Saturday is - Amy Thornberry, Codie Wakefield, Madelyn Williams, Denise Gersbach, Sarah Melhuish, Bec Cowling, Cass Hodges, Wendy Rix, Syann Allen, Louise Hawken, Niamh Dixon, Nic Knox, Janelle Thompson and Sami Afele.