Redback's need Slammers' full attention

The Collie Crane Hire South West Slammers women's side return to the court this weekend, travelling to Curtain Stadium to take on the Perth Redbacks.

The Saturday night fixture comes after a week's break for the Slammers and it cannot come any better, with the South West side to take on a struggling Redbacks outfit who have only won two games for the season.

Slammers' coach Darren Austin said his side would still have to be on their game for the clash.

"They are a physical and aggressive side," he said.

"We have to be aware and be up for the challenge.

"They have Gabriella Clayton back and she provides leadership and quality. Jessica Jakens is also someone we have to watch for."

The week's break gave a number of Slammers a chance to refresh and tend to some niggling injuries, with Kate Fielding (shoulder), Shannon Verhagen (knee) and Meg Ferraz (knee), all recovering from minor concerns.

Austin said his side had practised their shooting during the break after it caused concerns early in the season.

"We worked through our offensive structure and broke it down to make it more efficient," he said.

"The positive for us going into the break was we played well in the last quarter and a bit.

"They are the positives and now we have to put it together for four quarters."

Perth Redbacks women's coach Keith Horwood said he is expecting a tough game.

"They are really an exciting team," he said.

"Offensively we are behind the eight ball, but our defensive hustle is our highlight.

"We would hope to get a start on them."

Horwood identified former West Coast Wave Kate Fielding, three-point specialist Kelly Bastow and imports Patricia Bright and Deonica McCormick as players to watch.

"Fielding brings a lot of experience to the team," he said.

"We will try to make this game as scrappy as possible."

The South West Slammers take on the Perth Redbacks at Curtin Stadium on Saturday night, with tip-off at 6.30pm.