Leaders back in the groove

Netball

After a week of rest, the Canterbury and District Netball League teams couldn’t wait to get back on to the courts for the next round of fixtures in the Sunday league, writes Leanne Smith.

The day produced a fantastic match between top of the league Canterbury and Oasis.

Both teams started well but Canterbury soon pulled ahead with several goals in quick succession during the first quarter.

Oasis fought back during the second quarter with some fine support around the D but couldn’t keep up with Canterbury’s quick attack and excellent shooting.

A final push from Oasis in the final quarter added another 16 goals to their tally, keeping them within half of their opponents’ winning score and securing them a point.

Canterbury took maximum points with an impressive final score of 82 with Hannah Campbell taking Best Attack and Star Player titles of the match.

The closest game was between newcomers J&L and Blackjacks in Division 1 which ended with just a two- goal difference.

Both teams started slowly – no thanks to the morning’s cold weather – with little interception down the court in the first quarter. However, having warmed up, the teams upped their play which made for excellent viewing.

Blackjacks inched ahead in the second quarter thanks to some powerful passes into the D.

J& L showed even more determination in the third quarter to take the lead, not missing a beat from their centre passes. In the final quarter, the result could have gone either way with both teams pushing hard in the last few minutes.

However, impressive defensive play from Blackjacks tipped the advantage and helped them take the win.

Best defence was awarded to Alex Davitt (Blackjacks) with Star Player going to Sandra Robinson (J&L) for precision shooting.

The final score was 28-26 to Blackjacks.

Canterbury and Pilgrims still share top spot in Division 1, after both winning their games this weekend.

The wins take their overall points to 20 apiece.

There is no change again for Synergy and Blackjacks who follow behind with 16 points each, having both taken the five-point win in their games.

There have been some changes in Division 2.

GG Fitness’ win puts them ahead with 20 points.

Second place is jointly held by Wahl, Pilgrims Juniors and Bluebirds – all with 16 points apiece.

Best defence Alex Davitt