Melbourne Vixens could kick off finals campaign at Rod Laver Arena

MELBOURNE Vixens could kick off their finals campaign at Rod Laver Arena if they can secure a home final.

Madison Browne

MELBOURNE Vixens could kick off their finals campaign at Rod Laver Arena if they can secure a home final.

Their usual home venue, Hisense Arena, is unavailable because it will host Disney on Ice from July 4 to 9, leaving competition organisers to search for an alternative venue for the July 8 semi-final.

The Vixens, who have not played finals since 2009, will host a home final if they finish first or third on the ladder.

In the trans-Tasman competition, first plays second in the major semi-final and third faces fourth in the minor semi-final.

An ANZ Championship spokeswoman on Sunday confirmed the venue clash, but said no formal plans had been made about securing Rod Laver Arena.

"Nothing has been confirmed, but we are looking at possible venues for that date," she said.

The State Netball Hockey Centre is an option, but record crowds this season have exceeded its capacity.

The Vixens have drawn crowds of more than 7000 for their past two home games, against the Adelaide Thunderbirds and West Coast Fever.

The venue clash is only an issue for the first week of the finals.

The Vixens aim to strengthen their position in the top four against seventh-placed Central Pulse in New Zealand on Monday night.

The Vixens finish the regular season with two games on the road, facing Southern Steel in Invercargill on Saturday.

Vixens captain Bianca Chatfield said the team's fate was in its own hands.

"It's probably stating the obvious to say how important it is," she said.

"We are in complete control, which is great ... ultimately we have to make the most of that."

Coach Julie Hoornweg said the last two games were crucial for the team's finals prospects.

"They are both vital to our chances of winning this championship," she said.

The Vixens have won four out of five away games this season, losing only to NSW Swifts in Sydney in Round 9.

Pulse has not beaten the Vixens in four meetings, but Chatfield said it was much improved.

"I think they've been really exciting. They're getting stronger and (former Vixen) Caitlin Thwaites has been dominating at goal shooter for them," Chatfield said.

"So I guess we tread with caution because it is a bit of an unknown coming up against them."