Netball: Murupara cruise to victory against Kahukura

Murupara Stingers goal attack Amy Unuwai stops the ball going over the sideline against Kahukura Red. Photo/Ben Fraser

Murupara Stingers and Marist Magic continue to lead the way in Premier 1, picking up wins over Kahukura Red and Waikite Panthers respectively.

Murupara cruised to a 43-20 win over Kahukura on Saturday to maintain their hot run of form this season. They looked sharp from the get-go, scoring six unanswered points to start the game, and finished the first quarter with an 11-2 lead.

Murupara goal shoot Lee Tapsell and goal attack Amy Unuwai were at their sharp shooting best, draining shots from all over the circle to lead their side to a 21-8 lead at halftime.

Down on personnel and struggling to break down a fast and furious Murupara defence, the Kahukura Red energy and enthusiasm never wavered, but they struggled to turn attacking moves into points.

Kahukura Red wing defence Te Aomania Grace-Paul attempts to block a pass against Murupara Stingers. Photo/Ben Fraser

Murupara scored 14 points to three in the third quarter to lead 35-11, however, Kahukura were able to win the final quarter and reduce the deficit to 43-20.

Rotorua Netball results

Senior Championship

Premier 1
Marist Magic 80 Waikite Panthers 20; RGHS Prem 1 60 Mitchell Downs 51; Murupara Stingers 43 Kahukura Red 20.

Premier 2
Pikiao Warriors 55 Tuhoe 35; Marist Rebels 34 Ngongotaha Gold 27; Whaka Black 40 Eastside Gurls 1 28.

Senior A
Rotoiti Gold 50 Kahukura White 50; Reporoa Rangers 56 Waikite Flamez 51; Pikiao Raiders 52 Manawatahi Taiohi 46.

A Grade
Marist Inferno 51 Manawatahi Black 28; Kahukura Blue 38 Waikite Social 29; Ngati Kea Ngati Tuara 37 Ngongotaha Hapori 20.

Senior B
The Chix 32 Eastside Gurls 2 27; Vegas Lady Bugs 48 Marist Souls 24; Mana 45 Hinemoa Point 36; KTTTOF GIRLS 36 The Chix 26; Vegas Lady Bugs 50 Hinemoa Point 29; Mana 33 Marist Souls 33.