University of Newcastle coach Traci Baber expects their next two outings to provide a good gauge of where their season is heading, starting with West Leagues Balance in round three of Newcastle championship netball at National Park on Saturday.
After playing last season's second-placed team, University then face defending minor premiers Souths.
Baber said both would be tough tests but ones her almost full-strength side would embrace. University will be without goal attack Bronte Calman (nee Magin) due to illness but still have key players Sabina Gombosa and Abbie Gray in their shooting circle.
"The girls have been training really well and are feeling really confident," Baber said.
West are still without Central Coast shooter Maddie Taylor due to restrictions placed by her NSW Premier League club.
West and University both opened the season with strong wins before round two was washed out.
Nova Thunder go up against BNC Whanau, Souths meet Kotara South and Junction Stella take on Inner Glow. All games are at 3.45pm.
In Super Netball on Saturday, the Queensland Firebirds host the NSW Swifts and Adelaide Thunderbirds are at home to West Coast Fever. On Sunday, Lightning play Giants and Vixens take on the Magpies.
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