Two close premier games expected

SCRAMBLE FOR THE BALL: Horouta Gold’s Ngahuria Akania contests possession with High School Old Girls’ Saffron Eparaima in premier-grade netball last month. Horouta Gold take on Wairoa team Tapuae at the YMCA tomorrow in a game expected to be as close as their challenge-round clash. Picture by Liam Clayton

NETBALL

TIGHT games can be expected at both ends of the competition points table tomorrow in the netball premiership with invaluable points up for grabs for all four teams involved.

Horouta Gold and Tapuae face off from 9am in the morning at the YMCA.

“In the challenge round three weeks ago, these two teams had a very competitive game where Horouta sneaked through with a three-goal win,” netball commentator Sherrill Beale said.

“In this round both teams have recorded losses against higher-seeded teams, so they will have targeted this game as one they could win.

“Tapuae like to move the ball at speed, but Horouta stopped their flow in the last game, with their slower, steadier play.

“I am expecting this to be a close contest.”

Horouta’s greater experience in the premier grade may be the deciding factor.

At 10.30am Claydens Waikohu (1) take on YMP Sunshine Brewery.

“Waikohu (1) took the win in a close, competitive game when these two teams met in Round 1,” Beale said.

“I am expecting another tight tussle.

“The players from both teams work well together on attack and defence and they pressure their opposition at every opportunity.”

The Whangara draw with Gillies Electrical Gisborne Girls’ High School on Wednesday night opens the door for points gain for either Waikohu or YMP tomorrow morning.

The Victoria Domain courts will be busy from 9am through to 2.45pm tomorrow, involving senior, secondary, intermediate and Year 5 and 6 grades.