Whangara, Girls’ High in big clash

Arms linked: High School Old Girls’ Kelly Wood (left) and Paare Ahuriri-Leach, of Horouta, get in a tangle as they contest the loose ball. Picture by Paul Rickard

NETBALL

THE match-up between Whangara Old Girls and Gisborne Girls’ High School looms as game of the round in premier-grade netball tomorrow.

Top teams Taste One High School Old Girls, Whangara and YMP Sunshine Brewing go into the third round with two wins from two games in the PAK’nSAVE senior competition.

At 11am, Whangara will need to watch out for the students if they want to make it three from three.

“Both teams had close competitive games last week and there were some good skills on display,” netball commentator Sherrill Beale said.

Girls’ High nudged Ritana Senior A in a tight match.

“The understanding between the players in second seeds Whangara is developing well, but they will be aware that they only beat Ritana by five goals earlier, and Girls’ High beat Ritana,” Beale said.

“I am expecting a close contest.”

In the 9am game, Claydens Waikohu (1) take on Horouta Gold.

“Waikohu have yet to record a win but have been competitive,” Beale said.

“Last week they produced some good passages of play and had a close contest with second seeds Whangara, losing by only five. They will have their eyes on winning this game.

“Horouta are still developing connections between players and will need a team effort for the full game to stop Waikohu’s flow.”

YMP Sunshine Brewing get back into play after a weekend off, and take on Ritana Toa at 10am.

“YMP are coming off the bye, so they will be hungry for a win to take their total to three from three.

“Ritana Toa made Whangara work in the first week and had a close game against Girls’ High last week.

“They worked well as a team on attack and defence, so if they can do the same on Saturday this game could be very competitive.”

At 12 midday, Taste One High School Old Girls play Ritana Toa.

“HSOG are playing confidently and moving the ball well through the court,” Beale said.

“They made seamless changes on court last week, displaying their good understanding between players.

“Ritana have been playing well, but they will need to bring their top game against the defending champions.”

All senior teams will be on the courts from 9am through to 1pm.