Decider looming in transtasman battle

MOUNTED ATTACK: The Kiwis take on the Australians in the final round of the under-21 polocrosse test series at McNab Domain in Wanganui this weekend.PHOTO/FILE

THE Kiwis and Aussies are neck and neck heading into the final two matches of the one-off under-21 polocrosse test series in Wanganui this weekend.

The first two international matches were played last weekend in Tokoroa, where the first game was won by Australia and the second by New Zealand to ensure an exciting final round at McNab Domain in Kaiwhaiki this weekend.

Club captain of hosts the Kakatahi Polocrosse Club, Sarge Marshall, said the only slight advantage the New Zealanders held over their transtasman neighbours was the ponies.

"It was pretty tight last weekend with a match apiece. However, we do hold a small advantage in that it's our horses. The hosts are required to register two ponies - one they ride themselves and the other ridden by the visitors and this weekend they swap mounts. The same happens when we travel over there," Marshall said.

Each team is made up of eight players - four male and four female - and two of the Kiwi squad are Wanganui players.

"Katie Wills and her cousin Bayley Phillips, both from Mangamahu, are in the New Zealand under-21 team and they ride well," Marshall said.

The penultimate match on Saturday will be played at 4pm, while the final game is scheduled for 2pm on Sunday.

"The support card includes different grades and age groups, so there will be a lot of polocrosse. It's really exciting stuff and a great spectator sport and everyone is welcome.

"Play begins at 8.30am on Saturday and 8am on Saturday with the final international the last match of the carnival. We have food and refreshments available at McNab Domain."