Netball: Bay celebrate rare victory

Hawke's Bay had reason to celebrate at the national under-17 netball championships in Hastings yesterday.

Three of their umpires, Kelly Ives, Helga Lewis and Nicolette Walker, were promoted to control the top 16 play-offs, and the region's team finally pulled off a win.

"To be appointed by one's peers to umpire at top level at this tournament is indeed an honour," said Ives, who has officiated for several years.

What does it take to be a good umpire? Apart from knowing the rules, it's of paramount importance to maintain a high fitness level.

And it was in the fitness department the Hawke's Bay squad had to dig deep. Beaten 33-25 by defending champions Manawatu in the morning session, the hosts fought back brilliantly a few hours later to beat Mid Canterbury 39-24, a feat which inspired a few fans to sing "Come on the Bay".

Having lost their first three games to North Harbour 2, Taranaki and Eastern Waikato, Hawke's Bay played with more composure against much fancied Manawatu. They gave a spirited performance and the match could have gone either way.

Coach Julie Williams praised her team as they walked off the court.

"That's much better, girls," she said. "We can do it."

They certainly did in the afternoon session. Kelsey McPhee scored at regular intervals. She was well supported by Emma Taylor and Yahaira Williams. In defence, Olivia Tilyard thwarted a few serious challenges.

The win was well deserved and Williams' prediction that Hawke's Bay will improve on last season's finishing position - they placed second-to-last - may eventuate if they continue in this fashion.

With Manawatu out of contention, Auckland and Christchurch are favoured to take the title. Taranaki dropped out of contention when pipped 24-23 by Wanganui. It was a heartbreaker for the Taranaki coaching staff when in the last second of the match Sammy Murphy netted the winner.

Auckland defeated Hutt Valley 43-23 and then Wellington 50-36. Christchurch demolished Eastern Waikato 41-11 and then Canterbury Country 50-24.

The tournament ends today.