Aucklanders’ streak hits 15 match wins

Epic showdown with Canterbury set up

Another clinical display from tournament favourites Auckland and Canterbury has set up an epic battle when they go head to head today at Westown Golf Club in New Plymouth.

Canterbury carded two convincing wins against Hawke’s Bay Poverty Bay (31⁄ 11⁄ and Southland (5-0) while Auckland continued their streak to make it 15 wins from 15 matches after thumping Otago yesterday afternoon.

The Auckland side certainly has something to prove after being knocked off the top last year and team manager Viv Ryan is pleased with the fast start, but knows they can’t think too far ahead.

“We are certainly happy with the start, but we know that every day we have to do our best and not take anything for granted. The last two days have been really good and we just need to make sure we build on that,” said the experienced Ryan.

“Of course everyone comes here with the aim to win the trophy and I think we certainly have a point to prove after last year, that was a bit disappointing, but we are determined to do our best and hopefully get our name on that trophy once again.”

The test of these two heavyweights is going to be closely watched. Canterbury and Auckland have not batted an eye-lid on their journey so far and defending champions Canterbury are looking forward to the challenge.

Catherine Bell, 2015 player of the tournament, has continued last year’s form with dominant wins to anchor Canterbury and is enjoying her week.

“We are enjoying it, the team spirit is high and hopefully we can hang in there and keep grinding,” said Bell.

This will clearly be the biggest game of the pool play stage and Bell is assured they are ready to go. “We are all feeling confident ahead of that fixture and after today’s performance I think we will be ready to go.” CUE SPORTS FOOBALL