Gisborne’s YMCA set to light up with Premier top-of-the-table netball clash

The experience of YMP shooter Paku-Jane Skudder, pictured going for goal while challenged by Whāngārā Old Girls defender Tiara Weir, is likely to be a factor as her side take on Waikohu in a top-of-the-table Premier Grade netball game at the YMCA on Wednesday. Photo / Paul Rickard

The top two teams on the Premier Grade ladder face off in the YMCA on Wednesday night and an exciting match-up is on the cards.

The 7.30pm clash between defending champions Claydens Waikohu 1 and Turanga FM YMP 1 promises to be a high quality display of netball skills.

Both teams have experienced players in all areas – players who can slow the game down and use precise passing, but also with the ability to speed up themselves and ball movement if needed.

Close tussles are expected throughout the court, especially in the goal circles with Waikohu shooters Valerie Houkamau and Princess Tomoana matched against YMP defenders Keasi Williams-Fonohema and Bronya McMenamin.

Waikohu defender Humaria Higgins (right) will be out to shut down the YMP defence in Wednesday night Premier Grade netball action. These sides met in the 2024 final which Waikohu won 57-53 to clinch their first Premier crown. Photo / Paul Rickard

At the other end, YMP shooters Paku Skudder and Taimarie Matahiki, or Te Huinga Karauria, will duel with Waikohu defenders Arahia Tuhua and Humaria Higgins.

The action in the Y starts at 6pm with Gisborne Girls’ High School Senior A taking on Old Girls Whāngārā.

Girls’ High started the season strongly by moving and effectively using pre-movements to shake off their markers.

However, their confidence has dipped a little in the last couple of games against the more experienced YMP and High School Old Girls teams.

Old Girls Whāngārā displayed impressive skills last week and if they have all of their seasoned players available, they could notch their first win of the season.

Girls’ High will have other ideas and with both sides targeting a win, this could be a great game.