Spotlight on schools

ON SONG: Waikohu’s Stormy Merritt (left) and Lytton’s Ruby Westrupp will be in action tonight. Picture by Paul Rickard

The spotlight falls on Lytton and Gisborne Girls’ high schools, Waikohu and Horouta Gold in Pak’nSave premier-grade netball at the YMCA tonight.

Girls’ High take on Waikohu at 6pm.

“Girls’ High have yet to record a win this round, so they’ll want this one,” netball commentator Sherrill Beale said.

“They have shown glimpses of a winning team and really pushed top-of-the-table YMP Sunshine Brewery in their last outing, losing by only one goal.”

However, that was against an under-strength YMP side.

“Girls’ High beat Claydens Waikohu in the last round, but Waikohu are a different team now — more settled and now working as a team,” Beale said.

The revelation in the Waikohu team has been the shifting of the dynamic Stormy Merritt to centre. She has had a major impact on the team’s flow of ball, directing good ball into the shooting circle.

Waikohu have grown in confidence and execution level.

Coach Cheryl Te Rito will want to see that development continue tonight.

Irene Takao said her Girls’ High charges had been building each game.

If Girls’ High produce a full match effort tonight, they could surprise.

“I think this will be a close game,” Beale said.

At 7.30pm, Lytton Senior A take on Horouta Gold.

“Both teams will have targeted this game as one they could win,” Beale said.

“There were only three goals in it last round, in favour of Lytton.

“Horouta Gold have yet to win in this round, whereas Lytton have had a win.

“On paper, you would have to lean towards the students, but don’t underestimate Horouta Gold’s determination,” Beale said.

Lytton, like Girls’ High, have yet to find their rhythm, and consistency remains a work-on.

If they can perform better in midcourt and make more of their scoring opportunities, they should win well.

If not, Horouta will definitely be in with a chance.