Geraldton water polo: Finals kick off with close battles promised in the pool across all grades

The Geraldton water polo season has reached the first stage of finals, with all clubs represented across the grades.

Teams will battle it out on Saturday with hopes of securing a spot in next week’s grand finals.

In both the men’s and women’s A-grade competitions, Rats and Demons will face off in the elimination final, with the winner set to challenge B52’s for the championship title.

Demons enter as favourites in both divisions, boasting depth and experience.

In the women’s A-grade, Demons have an abundance of talent, with younger players from the B and C-grades stepping up to challenge the established regulars.

Key players to watch include Billie Marshall, Saskia Newman and Mel Bennett, who will form a formidable challenge for the Rats. Adding to their firepower are sisters Abbie and Sian Macdonald, who have long been a defensive headache for opponents.

Anything less than a convincing Demons win would feel like an upset.

However, the Rats will not go down without a fight. The team’s success will hinge on the performances of Sophie and Milly Kalajzich, Lani Grant and Tessa O’Malley. If they can replicate their round 8 victory, the Rats could challenge the Demons right to the end.

In the men’s match-up, the Demons’ superior depth and experience make them strong favourites. While the Rats have had consistent performances from Luke Neuwert and Darcy Wiffen, along with pace from young gun Bodhi Smith, the Demons hold the upper hand.

Goalkeeper Drew MacGregor is enjoying one of his best seasons, while the attacking duo of Zacc and Joel Cross provides plenty of firepower. This one is tipped to be a Demons victory by a comfortable margin.

In the women’s B-grade final, B52’s take on Demons. B52’s enter as slight favourites with Evie Prout, Abbie Horsman and Delta Horsman leading their goal-scoring charge.

Taylor Penney’s continued improvement in goal also strengthens their chances. However, the Demons have developed their tactical play throughout the season and with young stars such as Maddie Marshall, Saskia Newman and Billie Marshall in form, they could spring a surprise.

While B52’s are tipped to win, expect standout performances from the Marshall sisters.

The men’s B-grade final sees Relics take on Rats. Relics have played second fiddle to B52’s all season but are more than capable of toppling Rats.

With Noah Scott and Phil Martin providing a balance of experience and Brendon Jones solid in goal, Relics look well-equipped. Rats, however, have strong attacking options in Bodhi Smith and Oliver Green.

This one is expected to be close, but Relics should edge out a win.

The women’s C-grade features two semifinals. First-placed Rats Black take on fourth-placed Serpents Blue, while second-placed Rats Orange meet third-placed Serpents Green.

Rats Black are expected to continue their strong form and secure the win, but Rats Orange face an uphill battle. With three consecutive losses and key players missing, they could struggle against a rapidly improving Serpents Green side.

Expect a Rats Black and Serpents Green victory in this grade.

Only goal difference separates the Demons and Rats in the men’s C-grade, setting the stage for a closely contested final. Kasen Bunter will be key for the Demons, while Myles Crawford will play a crucial role for the Rats. This match could go down to the wire.

All games take place on Saturday, with grand final match-ups set to be decided by 5pm.