Whanga win in tough tussle

It was a perfect day in the Republic on Sunday.

The Whanga netball team set the standard with a hard fought win over Strathmore. All locked up at three quarter time the girls in black edged a head to take it out 35-27. Pip Mutch at mid court had a strong game for Whanga and combined well with shooters Amber Bellringer, who was on fire and Player of the Day for Whanga, Tina Kingi.

For Strathmore, Alesha Warner was their Player of the Day. Chrisie Longstaff also had an amazing game.

Then to the Whanga Domain where Dean Cup Holders Whanga took on Challengers Strathmore.

We were very honoured to have Doug Dean at the game. He is the grandson of Mrs Athalinda Dean who donated the Dean Cup back in 1906.

The first half was even until Strathmore's Tim Fleming scoring the first try right on half time. That of course earned him the task of drinking the yardie, which he did in fine style.

Whanga scored first in the 2nd half with a penalty making it 5-3. Then Stathmore's Jeremy Newell who had been a hand full for Whanga all game scored to make it 12-3.

With Porkies pre-game words of wisdom ringing in their ears, the Men in Black, changed into another gear with new dad, Sami Werder crossing over for Whanga to make it 12-8 and then the glorious sight of Matiu Welch scorching down the length of the paddock to put Scotty Simmons over for the try. 13-12 to Whanga.

The Whanga fans dared hope. Wal's Men in Black did their bit and kept Candy Man's green machine at bay till that wonderful full time whistle went. The Cup stays in the Republic!

Player of the Day for Whanga was Glen 'Ranga' Law with Tim Gilmour and Matiu Welch also having a strong game. For Strathmore Jeremy Newell was their Player of the Day with David Avery and Tim 'Evergreen'Fleming doing their bit.

So it was down to the business end of the day. Pat and co putting on a huge feed for all and JD and Zora making sure everyone was rehydrated.

Many thanks to sponsors Mike Willis, Bradley Livestock who have provided new shorts for the guys and Whangamomona Hotel for providing shirts for Players of the Day. And to all those who beaver away behind the scenes to make the day run smoothly.

Thanks also to Jeff the Refs for the rugby and the netball.

Big congratulations to Whanga's Steve Murhpy who won both the long head and short head with Kei at the South Island Dog Trial Champs. A mighty effort.

Victorious coach Wal will be well pleased with the first up effort but as they say it's not over till the fat lady sings. So it will be gullyscreamers Whanga verses gumbooters Toko on the 7th of June at the Whanga Domain. Kick off at 1pm. Jean Cup netball will be at 11am at the Marco School.

So come on Toko supporters. You won't melt if you get out into some real country and enjoy some Whanga hospitality.

See you all there.