Three new teams debuted in the opening Premier Reserve championship round with reasonably predictable results.
Wahine Toa 1 broke out to an eight goal lead before newly-promoted Manawanui Collegiate Red team fought back, forcing Wahine Toa to work hard to dominate the final quarter and win 52-37.
Wahine Toa 1'sMaria Dick (goal attack) fed the circle and shot well.
In defence, Sophie Thomas (wing defence) stood out.
Manawanui Collegiate Red's Tiana Harris-Otene (goal keep) was consistent on defence and Annastassia Larkins (centre) was skilful in the midcourt.
Recently demoted Takahiwai 1 will be pleased to have a win under their belts against Manawanui Social 56-34 after a tight first quarter.
Manawanui Social could not sustain their form and Takahiwai 1 had a big second quarter to lead by nine goals. For Takahiwai 1, pressure from Hannah Edge at goal keep and Kaylah Chapman brought good tips and intercepts.
The attackers, however, were the standouts and Shona Dangen (goal shoot) moved well and shot at high percentage. For Manawanui Social, Louise McGrath and Ravena Otene in defence worked hard and Megan Collinson at centre and Anya Garland at wing attack provided good support. Moana Matautia and Kylie Campbell in the shooting circle positioned and shot well.
In the final game Marist 2 had a good win over Fideliter 3 52-29. The first quarter was close with only two goals in it but after that it all went Marist's way. For Marist 2, Germaine Gibson and Lucinda McBeth in defence played a tight defensive game throughout.
All the mid courters that took the court controlled the ball well and fed a power of good ball to the shooters. Tegan Musgrove, Jaimee Dunn and Rebecca Simper all worked hard in the shooting circle to ensure consistency. For Fideliter 3 all players had their moments but were unable to sustain pressure throughout the game and convert turnovers.
