IF the Bendigo Spirit is to finish top two this season, it must win against Canberra on Friday night, coach Bernie Harrower has declared.
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Harrower believes his team will have a titanic struggle to beat the Capitals, who now have Australian Opals champion Lauren Jackson on their list.
He said the Spirit were determined to bounce back after a disappointing loss last week.
"We have done some soul-searching this week with some of our star players who have been a bit ordinary," he said.
"We had an extensive video session and training was sharp, so I am expecting an improved performance.
"We need to continue to maintain that pressure."
Harrower understands the Capitals will be desperate to get over the top of Bendigo as they only sit one win outside the WNBL top four.
Canberra has won its past two matches and had a narrow loss to the Rangers.
"They have been in good form and will bring the fire," Harrower said.
"We have to pick up on our intensity in defence because the defence is where you win matches."
Harrower said he was also wary of Jackson and the impact she had on her team-mates.
She has averaged 14 points and seven rebounds in her past four games
"She isn't at her best, she has been struggling physically, but she makes a huge difference to their team," he said.
Bendigo Spirit will take on the Canberra Capitals at the Bendigo Stadium on Friday at 7.30pm.
The Spirit will then back it up in Western Australia on Sunday when they take on the Waves at 1pm.
"We aren't worrying about the West Coast game at this stage," Harrower said.
"We are firmly focused on playing against Canberra."