NVL preview (16th and 17th December)

After edging a 3-2 victory in last weekend’s table-topping clash, Wessex have opened up clear daylight and are now firm favourites to finish as champions, but they can ill-afford to let up so close to Christmas as they host Bristol. 

Similarly, Stockport, who were on the wrong end of that epic five-setter on the South Coast, will want to bounce back quickly when they visit Leicester Athena for their final match of 2023. 

In Division 2 North, none of the top three are in action, but fourth-placed Tamworth Spartans can make up ground when they visit Manchester Marvels Mystics (pictured). 

Urmston Grammar and Leeds Gorse 2 face each other with each bidding to record a second victory of the season. 

There are no matches in Division 2 Central, but in Division 2 South, Bedminster will host Bristol 2 on Saturday and Sussex Dolphins on Sunday. 

All Division 3 sides have now finished for their Christmas break. 

In the men’s competition, there are also important matches in Division 1, with Black Country having the chance to go top – albeit having played three more games than Essex Blaze – if they overcome London Giants by a convincing score at the Caius House Youth Centre. 

It's been a tough season so far for both Manchester Marvels and Tamworth Spartans but both will have the chance for a welcome victory when they meet. 

Just one game is scheduled for Division 2 North with Liverpool and Harrogate meeting on Merseyside. 

Division 3 clubs begin their winter break, giving themselves a welcome opportunity to recharge ahead of going again in January.