Netball: Manawanui see off WGHS

Keyson Keerako (right) at wing defence for Manawanui Development is defended by Whangarei Girls' High School's Teagan Kirby (C). Photo / Judy MacDonald

The third week of the preliminary round for premier reserve netball saw a tight game between the young Manawanui Development and Whangarei Girls' High School (WGHS) 10-1 teams.

WGHS 10-1 went ahead by a goal at the end of the first quarter but by half time Manawanui Development had taken the lead and were ahead by three goals.

WGHS 10-1 narrowed the gap in the third quarter to be one goal adrift but Manawanui Development had a good final quarter to take the win 39-34.

For Manawanui Development, Kapua Harris-Otene at goal defence had an outstanding game as did Irihaapeti Te Whata at goal keep.

Ngaire-Ani Mehana, at centre, showed skill bringing the ball through the court and fed the shooters well.

Briahn Ruri at goal attack shot consistently throughout the game and was well supported by Eboni Mackie at goal shoot.

For WGHS 10-1, Summer Turner at goal keep worked tirelessly in defence. Turner and Uma Robinson at goal defence put good pressure on the Manawanui shooters.

Teagan Kirby at wing attack and centre played a consistent game and Carly Job shot well sealing a bonus point for her team. Fideliter 2 had a win this week over the younger Wahine Toa Whero team by 53 goals to 47. For Fideliter 2, Holly Weber at wing defence and centre made herself readily available providing some nice straight lines of play.

Ruth Prime and Abby Hutchinson in defence combined well securing turnover ball and rebounds. Newcomer Sarah Congdon slotted nicely into the team and shot accurately. For Wahine Toa Whero, Nelly Tau at wing attack drove and fed well as did Jacinda Branson at centre.

Kahu Kura Hau-Peita at goal keep and Eyvette Branson at goal defence were an outstanding combination turning over some nice ball.

In the remaining match of the round, Hora Hora continued their winning streak with a 59-39 victory over Marist 2. For Hora Hora, Anne Frost at goal attack celebrated her birthday in style combining well with Rachel Pilcher at goal shoot.

For Marist 2, Rebecca Simper at goal shoot had a solid game and was consistent.

In the mid-court, Tennille Cherrington at centre and wing attack played well.