Physed A and College A could not be separated in a thrilling round 2 premier game on weekend. They had to settle for a 53-53 draw. Both teams showcased great skill and determination.
Physed led 17-16 at the first break and a strong start to the second quarter resulted in it opening up a seven-goal advantage.
Shooter Charlotte Underwood-Nicol dominated the circle. However, an ankle injury called for a substitution, resulting in a strong shooting combination of Abby Harris and Meleitia Tatupu.
Physed were up by five at halftime.
This lead was quickly shortened by College in the third quarter, as they capitalised on any turnover ball they could get from their opposition.
College’s midcourt combination of Poppy Kilworth and Cara Mustchin were clinical in their feeds into their shooters, ensuring any turnovers were converted.
College had pruned the gap to three with 15 minutes to play.
But the gap stayed at two or three until College goal defence Holly McRae made a vital tip with five minutes to go.
And a crucial intercept from College wing defence Annie Timu brought the teams level 51-51 with just over two minutes to play. Both teams added another two goals in a dramatic draw.
They could to meet again in the semifinals next month.
University Albion A dominated University Albion B to win 71-49. However, the game was close initially.
The As were up by just one after the first quarter but they put their foot down in the second period, pushing their lead out to 10.
The newly promoted South Pac Titans Tāiko almost upset Physed B in another cliffhanger at the Edgar Centre.
They led by five at quarter time and hung on to the lead for the first three quarters.
But Physed B produced a late surge. The score was tied with 30 seconds remaining.
South Pac had the ball in their shooting circle with the opportunity to win the game, but Physed goal keeper Amelia McKeown had other ideas.
She secured a critical intercept for her team. Physed moved the ball down the court with pace and Lucy McLellan. The buzzer sounded before she could shoot, but a contact call against South Pac defence potted the winner. The 56-55 win no doubt came as a relief to Physed B.
Southern beat St Hilda’s 50-40 in the other game. They banged in 16 goals in a punishing second quarter.
By Hannah Bisset
