NETBALL - Focused Marist side repel Fideliter.

Marist Combined held off a spirited challenge from Fideliter to secure the Premier Championship title 48-38 in Whangarei Premier Netball on Saturday.
Underdogs Fideliter had nothing to lose. After their emphatic rise from Premier Reserve grade right through to make this year's Premier Final, the possibility of the ultimate fairytale ending could not be dismissed.
In likely the longest match in Whangarei netball history, a curious battle ensued with no fewer than six players falling to injury throughout the match.
The first quarter unfolded as expected with both sides trading shots, and both shooting combinations on song. Nicky Taylor for Marist was clearly a key contributor and Judy MacDonald for Fideliter was equally dominant with some nice touches for her side.
Standout Fideliter defender Loren Eagle made life tough for Marist and provided clear entertainment for the large crowd who turned out for the match.
In the second period, not a lot changed in terms of the consistent pressure from both sides, but Marist were hit hard with a number of players forced from the court due to injury. This could have completely up-ended their momentum but their experience showed and they headed into the second half with the advantage.
The second-half injuries continued to disrupt the match but Fideliter came back strongly and took the lead halfway through for the first time in the match.
Then tragedy struck for the challengers with key defender Loren Eagle having to be carried from the court after a nasty mid-air collision.
The fourth quarter saw more changes again for both sides but it was Marist who settled into their changes with greater effect, continued to bank their possession and eventually take the match and the title, denying Fideliter the fairytale ending.
Marist coach Jo Easterbrook was both relieved and delighted for her side.
"That was such a strange game, but I'm really happy for them as it was an excellent team effort. There are some in the side who have never actually won the whole thing before and it was extra special for them," she said.
In the playoff for third and fourth Takahiwai ended their season on a high by subduing Hora Hora 34-17.
Takahiwai were clearly more fired up than Hora Hora and showed their strength throughout court, punishing Hora Hora for any small error.
Takahiwai were dominant throughout the match with a complete team performance and thoroughly deserved their victory.
And at the other end of the table, Marist 1 and Whangarei Girls High School were forced to settle for a 27-all draw in the playoff for fifth and sixth, while earlier in the day Wahine Toa took out the Premier Reserve title over Manawanui 28-16.
* And the winners are:
Picture details: From left at back, Jo Easterbrook, Michelle Chapman, Linda Christian, Vanessa Bardot,Amie Pooley, Helen Francis, Jackie Hirawani; in front, Tracey Bradley, Hayley Barrell, Jamie Crabb, Nicky Taylor.