The Rarotonga Netball Club competition open 1 and 2 semi-finals played on Wednesday.

In the open 1 semis, TKV defeated Avatiu 27-25 while Arorangi overcame Ngatangiia Matavera 23-19.

Netball Cook Islands secretary Tekura Moekaa said the TKV versus Avatiu match was a nail-biting affair.

Avatiu led throughout normal time, being ahead by 6-8 points at one time. TKV managed to close the gap in the last quarter and draw on the hooter. The final score was 21-all at the end of normal time.

Extra time took place – 2 x 5 minutes as agreed by umpires and captains due to lighting (Competition Rules = 2x7min halves). Again, Avatiu came out of the blocks with a two point lead heading into the second half of extra time. With a minute to go, TKV closed the gap to draw again.

“Play continued and TKV centre pass put them ahead, to steal the win and the game,” Moekaa said.

In the other semi-final, Ngatangiia Matavera headed into the game as favourites and led from the start with Punanga Kaveao and Ati Tiro controlling their defence end.

By third quarter, it was all tied up 17-all.

In the fourth quarter, Mii Maui, the always cool, calm and collected in the shooting circle provided options for her feeders, with Arorangi winning 23-19.

In the open 2 semi-final, TKV defeated Tupapa in another close encounter – 25-24.

“It was a tit for tat match. TKV unbeaten in both rounds.”

In the other open 2 semis, Avatiu defeated Titikaveka.

Moekaa said: “Accurate Avatiu shooters Edith Nicholas, Tahari Mitchell and Maine Tamangaro made hard work for Titikaveka defenders. Coach/manager and player Jane Mitchell and utility player manage to keep Titikaveka at the helm throughout the match.”

In the open 1 final, TKV will take on Arorangi while Avatiu will play TKV in open 2 final. Both finals will be held on July 27.