Russells Curtains Nelson under-17 representative netball team had a challenging task ahead when they left for their national tournament in Mt Maunganui without their inspirational captain Poppy Restieaux and vice-captain Taylar Kirker.
The girls had time to “come to terms” with Poppy’s loss, however Taylor’s withdrawal on account on injury was just a couple of days before departure. However, to the girls’ credit, they came together to make the most of their opportunities in last week’s tournament.
Although their ultimate goal was to make the top 16, their first task was a top two finish in pool play. Nelson made the perfect start with a convincing win over Hamilton City B 41–27 with Tali Uia leading the charge from goal shoot, while Natasha Bannister had a strong performance at goal keep.
Kapi-Mana was always going to be a huge ask – they had lost by four goals to the northerners at the Marjorie Jenden Tournament at Queen’s Birthday Weekend. It was a tough game against physical opposition, Kapi-Mana were quick in transition on the turnover and punished Nelson for any unforced errors. Standouts were once again “the bookends” Tali and Natasha who worked hard throughout. The 25–41 loss put the writing on the wall that a top sixteen would not eventuate as Nelson were yet to meet the talented Auckland 2 team.
Nelson dominated the Harbourside Invitation side by 33–12, which enabled coach, Mandy Whiting to give good court time to all her girls.
Auckland 2 were “a really nice team”, they were skilled and well-drilled and very “clean” which lead to their 43–15 win over Nelson.
Wanganui was the game which got away – it could have gone either way as the teams could not be separated at half-time. Wanganui were up by two at three quarter time however a few small errors crept into Nelson’s play and they ended on the wrong side of the ledger 27–32.
Nelson regrouped before they met Wairarapa and as a team decided to go out and prove a point. Played in the pouring rain, Nelson was impressive as they kept Wairarapa scoreless in the first period and went on to win 39–9.
Horowhenua had recorded some high scores with their accurate shooters, however, Nelson’s defence toiled to stop the flow and apply pressure to the shooters. Natasha had established a great understanding with her defensive partner Kate Hand which went a long way towards the 44–25 win.
The play-off for 25th against Rotorua could have gone either way. Nelson played well and coped better with their physical opposition and although they had a three goal lead at half time, Rotorua chipped away at the deficit and finally record a 29–24 win.
Mandy had high praise for her charges, saying “they were a really, wonderful bunch who had great attitudes”. Riley McKendry made great inroads throughout the tournament, going for the ball with two hands and working hard to break several centre passes.
Natasha also came in for praise, as she had to mark some very tall shooters, however she kept moving and gained some great ball for her efforts. Goal attack Demi Woolley also impressed and played some enterprising netball with Tali.
