Hanmer three-peat in Hurunui netball
Hanmer A claimed a hat-trick of Hurunui senior A netball titles with a 40-33 win over Culverden in Hanmer on Saturday. First season coach Krissy Griggs said she ‘‘couldn’t be prouder’’ of the team.
‘‘The growth they have made to end on a high with the title, what more can a coach ask for,’’ Griggs said.
The two sides had shared the regular season honours with Hanmer winning by three goals on their way to winning the first round Elliott Cup for the first time, before Culverden’s second round upset by two goals. Hanmer made the stronger start to the final taking an early lead that they wouldn’t relinquish with goalkeep Sara Black having an imposing game on defence making life difficult for the Culverden shooters.
‘‘Sara saved the best until last. She shut out her player in the second quarter, only allowing one shot to go up and successfully gaining 95 per cent of all rebounds.’’
Culverden lost defender Nicola Speakman to injury in the second quarter forcing a reshuffle and Hanmer held a 21-15 lead at halftime. Hanmer maintained their advantage on their way to a third straight title, but with a different mix on court with Griggs recruiting ‘‘hidden local gems’’ including assistant player-coach in former Tactix player Kiley Bailey (nee Hikawai). Hanmer have to back up this weekend in the champion of champions fixture against Kaikoura winners, Rebels A. In the Hurunui senior B final, Culverden Red had a 40-38 over Hanmer B while Waiau A won the primary A final against Cheviot A.
In North Canterbury premier netball on Monday, Kaiapoi bounced back from their first defeat of the season to beat Clarkville 77-37. Kaiapoi finish top of the table and meet Halswell in the semi-finals. Halswell had a comfortable win over Rangiora High School after over coming a halftime deficit. RHS led 24-21 at halftime but an eight goal burst had Halswell storm into the lead and a 59-44 win. Defending champions Ohoka had a 16-goal win over Greenpark, with the sides set to meet again in next week’s semifinals.
The Hurunui and North Canterbury senior rep teams met in the annual Shadbolt Rosebowl game on Sunday with North Canterbury winning 46-44. The Primary Shadbolt Rosebowl was also won by North Canterbury 30-22.