Netball: Fideliter 2 convincingly gain place in Championship

Only one game was played on Friday to determine the team that would fill the sixth position in the Premier grade for the Championship Round.

Fideliter 2 earned the right to challenge for the position after winning the Premier Reserve grade and took on Wahine Toa in a winner takes all game.

The game started relatively evenly with the Fideliter team taking a slim lead into the first break.

Maria Dick kept Wahine Toa in touch, scoring goal for goal. However, in the second quarter, the full court pressure applied by Fideliter caused Wahine Toa to make mistakes and these were capitalised on by Fideliter, enabling them to extend their lead to 10 by half time.

Wahine Toa never recovered from this, and played catch-up netball for the remainder of the game.

Despite the good work that the young defensive combination of Pae Tipene-Komnene and Eyvette Branson put together to gain turnovers, and to force the feeding from Fideliter, it wasn't sufficient to pull the game back.

Fideliter played a short game, treasuring possession.

They were confident resetting the ball when necessary, giving themselves time to set up and find space to deliver the ball into the goal circle.

Bailey O'Sullivan, at goal shoot for Fideliter, was unflappable. She was unbothered by her opposition, calmly going about her job, and shooting with accuracy.

Jasmin Winikerei at goal defence had an impressive game, doggedly chasing loose ball and forcing numerous turnovers.

The significant half time lead allowed the Fideliter coaches to make changes and have all players take the court and contribute to the game.

With the sideline support of vocal clubmates and supporters Fideliter won the game convincingly 41-23 and in doing so move into the Premier grade for the rest of the season.

The other Premier teams should take note, this young and largely unknown team to the Whangarei competition appear to be serious contenders moving forward.