Defeat fails to faze Giants

Cross Country Rentals Giants softball team were on the wrong end of two scorelines on Saturday.
Despite suffering 3-1 and then 4-1 losses against Miramar at South Park, pitcher Richard Clarke was upbeat about the two games played.
"Miramar fielded four current or former Black Sox pitchers so it was good to face that level of opposition this early in the season. Despite the final scores, we aren't despondent at all. Miramar took their chances well, they were a handy outfit" Clarke said.
Giants took to the diamond minus "Chunky" Karaitiana, captain Corie Karaitiana and Malcolm Namana, all of whom were unavailable.
The first game was tied at 1-1 after 7 innings, taking the game to a tie-breaker. Miramar scored two in the one hit, something the home side was unable to replicate, making the final scoreline 3-1.
The second game saw Miramar ease to a more comfortable 4-1 victory. Stand-out performances for Giants in both games came from Nathan Shannahan at second base and catcher Campbell Gaunt.
Meantime, Giants U18s won their pre-season game against Hutt City United 7-2 with Danny Brown the stand-out with pitching.