Batting pays off for Biguns

A109 Light Utility Helicopter flight with mayor Gisborne City from the air in November 2023.

BIGUNS continue to set the pace in the senior women’s competition but they had to work hard for the points by a battling Rovers team at the weekend.

“The 7-0 scorline is not a true reflection on the effort put in by Rovers,’ said Tairawhiti Softball Assoiation development officer Leesa Kingi.

“Although the score reads like a whitewash, Biguns on average only got one run an inning, thanks to the pitching from Rochelle Hikawai, who struck out seven players in the seven-inning game.

“It was Biguns persistance with the bat, from Christina Sayer and Te Rangi Reihana and the skilled base running from most of the team that gave them the win.”

Kingi said Rovers pitcher Challise Rutene was “all over the ball picking up five strikeoputs and having five assists”.

In the mens’ competiton Steelers bounced back from last week’s loss to competition leaders Spartans to beat on Ritana (Lytton High School) 14-1.

“It was a case of welcome back to old timer John Collier who pitched well, getting four strikeouts in four inning, Kingi said.

“Rapana Ngauu not only pitched well for Ritana (four strikeouts) but hit a massive homerun for Ritana.

“Steelers have got a lot of their former players back and they will be a team to watch.

Results: Women, Rovers 0 Biguns 7, Gisborne Girls’ High 10 Uawa 8, Te Aowera 12 Panthers 3, Turanga Health 7 Waikohu 0 (won by default).

Men: Steelers 14 Ritana 1, Spartans 11 Gisborne Boys’ High (2).