Uawa wanted first title badly

FIRST WINNERS: Uawa won the inaugural Gisborne men’s netball competition at the YMCA last night and they were elated about it. They are (from left): Costa Blackman, Blayne Whakataka, Harley Phillips, Beritane Milner (with the trophy), Tyla Keelan-Phillips, Shanan Gray, Te Rauhuia Kutia-Ngata and Cairo Reihana. (In front) Taniera Paratu-Fuimaono. Picture by Jules Hansen

Uawa turned the tables on the previously unbeaten Noogies and led from start to finish in the final of the inaugural men’s Gisborne netball championship at a packed YMCA last night.

The winners were up 7-5 at the end of the first quarter, by 16-11 at half time, 22-19 at the three-quarter mark, then 29-24 at full time.

“The final, to decide first and second in the competition, was especially exciting,” said netball commentator Sherrill Beale.

“The supporters for both teams added to the atmosphere with their loud cheering and their colourful banners.

“Both teams gave a good display of netball skills and pressured each other into making errors,” Beale said.

“The ball often went up and down the court from impressive turnovers, and all players had to work for every pass.

“It was a great game to end the tournament.”

Uawa captain Shanan Gray said his team wanted the win badly.

“We had to adjust our lineup due to some players not being available, so to win and win so well feels fantastic.

“It’s quite overwhelming.

“We did it for our supporters, who have been there with us right through the competition.”

Gray said he was “elated” with how the first men’s competition had gone.

“It has created an opportnity for us to compete, especially for those of us who love netball.”

Big M finished third when they beat BDPC 40-25, and The Joops defeated LHS 27-15 to decide fifth and sixth place.

“All three games were very competitive,” Beale said.

“Overall I think it has been a hugely successful competition and the skill levels of all the players have really improved throughout the competition from all teams.”

Centre manager Allisa Hall said the centre was “rapt” with how the first men’s competition turned out.

“We look forward to it growing further from here.”

Beale said there had been talk about possible competition for the men at a national level.

“It has been a great way to create a pathway for men wanting to play the game in this district.

“We hope next year it will be even bigger and better.”