Netball: Murupara Stingers defeat Marist Magic to go top

Murupara player Maia Timu defending. Photo / Ben Fraser

Murupara Stingers versus Marist Magic was expected to be a thrilling encounter and Rotorua's top two netball sides did not disappoint.

The two sides went into Saturday's game on top of the Premier 1 table, both on 10 competition points. Despite trailing early on, Murupara produced an explosive second half to win 46-37 and go clear at the top of the table.

Marist started the game with the type of ferocious intensity which has become their trademark this season. However, Murupara rolled with the punches and made sure their opposition never got too far ahead. At the end of the first quarter Marist led 11-9.

Marist went up a gear in the second quarter and threatened to run away with the game, leading 24-18 at halftime.

Whatever was said in the Murupara huddle at halftime worked a treat as they came out flying in the third quarter. In a massive turnaround they led 35-29 after the third quarter.

Marist player Tui Tango with ball. Photo / Ben Fraser

With all the momentum, Murupara kept the pressure on an exhausted looking Marist side in the final quarter to claim an important win.

Meanwhile, Rotorua Girls' High School beat Kahukura Red 71-40 and now sit in second place, equal on points with Marist.

Rotorua Netball results
Senior Championship
Premier 1
Murupara Stingers 46 Marist Magic 37; RGHS Prem 1 71 Kahukura Red 40; Mitchell Downs DWn Waikite Panthers DLs.

Premier 2
Eastside Gurls 1 55 Pikiao Warriors 46; Marist Rebels 40 Whaka Black 37; Ngongotaha Gold 51 Tuhoe 40.

Senior A
Pikiao Raiders 53 Rotoiti Gold 41; Manawatahi Taiohi 43 Reporoa Rangers 36; Kahukura White 35 Waikite Flamez 31.

A Grade
Marist Inferno 78 v Ngongotaha Hapori 19; Kahukura Blue DWn Ngati Kea Ngati Tuara DLs; Manawatahi Black 46 Waikite Social 27.

Senior B
KTTTOF GIRLS 49 Marist Souls 47; Hinemoa Point DWn Eastside Gurls 2 DLs; Vegas Lady Bugs 33 The Chix 32; KTTTOF GIRLS 45 Hinemoa Point 35; Marist Souls 41 Eastside Gurls 2 25; Mana 29 The Chix 28.