Round two of the Rarotonga Netball Club Competition started off last week with exhilarating excitement and passion that left the crowd fascinated with a show of incredible athleticism and sportsmanship.

Wednesday’s open ladies’ netball games were met with a wet afternoon, with rain pouring down during the matches, slowing the pace but not dampening the spirits of the players. Ngatangiia moving their home game to Tupapa Courts, utilising their new dome. Despite the challenging conditions, the open games remained intense and enjoyable to watch.

Saturday’s netball games brought a ray of sunshine to the courts, the morning kicked off with the juniors out in force, ready to leave their mark on the court.

From the adorable games of the Under 6 players to the growing skills of the Under 16 athletes, each age group brings its own charm and excitement to the netball court. 

In the sole reserves match between Titikaveka and Avatiu, both teams showed early promise, particularly notable was Avatiu’s young shooting talent, as they consistently found the net with impressive accuracy, keeping the score line close in the initial stages of the match.

However, Titikaveka’s seasoned players brought a wealth of knowledge and composure to the court, setting the pace and dictating the flow of the game, it was Titikaveka who emerged victorious 42-33, showcasing their strength and experience on the netball court.

The premier match between Avatiu and Titikaveka was a nail-biting affair, with both teams showcasing their skills and determination in a highly anticipated showdown. At halftime, Avatiu held a narrow lead of two points, credits to the impressive defensive efforts of Nicol Tiaore and Peniana Crocombe, who effectively shut down many of Titikaveka’s scoring opportunities. 

However, the third quarter saw a remarkable surge of energy from Titikaveka. Led by strong defensive plays from Natalia Short and Micheyla Matapo, Titikaveka tightened their defence and put pressure on Avatiu’s offence, causing turnovers and disrupting their rhythm.

Inside the goal circle, Mahanarei Short and Alanna Smith displayed exceptional shooting accuracy, converting crucial opportunities into points for Titikaveka. Titikaveka coming away in the final two quarters to secure the 45-37 win.

In the Takuvaine and Arorangi match, Arorangi was trailing after two quarters with their new look young team, before passing Takuvaine and extending to lead by 8 heading into the last quarter. Stand out players Matty Mataroa, Danielle Arona and Allisthena Poila all showing what they have and what it takes to be playing at premier level.

From Takuvaine young sharp shooter Lilyana Mataitini was a strong receiver under the post and held her ground well against seasoned defender Keziah Lewis. All in all, it was a great game by both teams, with Arorangi claiming 50-44 win.

Results:

6U: Avatiu 7 Titikaveka 5; Arorangi 9 Takuvaine 0

8U: Avatiu 4 Titikaveka 3; Ngatangiia 6 Tupapa 1; Arorangi 4  Takuvaine 1

10U: Ngatangiia 18 Tupapa 2; Arorangi 14 Takuvaine 7

12U: Titikaveka 16 Avatiu 5; Tupapa 17 Ngatangiia 11; Takuvaine 26; Arorangi 14

14U: Avatiu 23 Titikaveka 18; Takuvaine 25 Arorangi 18

16U: Avatiu 36 Titikaveka 10; Ngatangiia 29 Tupapa; 10 Arorangi 55 Takuvaine

Open 2: Avatiu 26 Titikaveka 12: Ngatangiia 25 Tupapa 10

Open 1: Titikaveka 28 Avatiu 15; Tupapa 24 Ngatangiia 15; Arorangi 29 Takuvaine 23  

Reserves: Titikaveka 42  Avatiu 33

Premier: Titikaveka 45 Avatiu 37; Tupapa win by Default against Ngatangiia; Arorangi 50 Takuvaine 44