The Panthers have already made significant gains, snapping a 26-game losing streak which dated back to 2014 and severely reducing the margin of losses between against the competition's upper echelon.

A 46 goal loss to Newbridge in round one was trimmed to 24 goals a fortnight ago in an encouraging sign for coach and her charges.

Another measure of their development will come against Pyramid Hill.

Only one goal separated the Panthers and Bulldogs in their earlier season contest at Malone Park.

Bagnall said the clash at Mitchell Park would be a real test for her team against another equally eager for victory.

"We want to show improvement and be competitive every game," she said.

"And without a doubt there has been improvement.

"We have been much stronger defensively and attacking and we are working more cohesively as a team."

The Panthers have been presented with plenty of challenges so far this season, a lot of them unrelated to their on-court rivals.

The netballers were forces to train away from their base at Malone Park during the pre-season while courts were being upgraded.

It wasn't until a few weeks ago permanent lights were installed at the venue.

Bagnall said the Panthers had entered the season in good physical condition, but not match fit.

She could not be prouder of her players' resilience, determination and above all character.

"The girls are happy ... (and) it'a a great club to be  apart of," she said.

"We're halfway through the season and it's time where people get tired and a bit disheartened, but the girls aren't feeling that way.

"They are feeling really positive about how they are playing and how they are improving and are loving playing for their team."

A win would draw Marong level with Pyramid Hill on three wins for the season.

That won't be easy against a Bulldogs line-up showing a healthy dose of improvement themselves against top-four opponents.

The Bulldogs lost by 21 to Newbridge last round and 15 to Calivil United three rounds ago, suggesting the clash against the Panthers will go right down to the wire.

Meanwhile, YCW will be keen to test its metttle against second-placed Newbridge.

The Eagles went down by 12 to Bridgewater last round but are another team showing better form.

Fifth-place is theirs for the taking, currently two wins ahead of Pyramid Hill.

But the Maroons are on a four-game winning streak and lost just once this season and will head to Backhaus Oval full of confidence.

In other games, fourth-placed Bridgewater meets Inglewood and Bears Lagoon-Serpentine hosts Calivil United.

Top of the ladder Mitiamo has the bye.