Canty seconds away from netball upset

Press, 2 June 1981, Page 3

Canty seconds away from netball upset

Canterbun’ came within seconds of inflicting on England .the first loss of its netballtour of New Zealand at the Hagley courts yesterday.

Canterbury led the strong English team throughout the match until right at the end. England sneaked ahead for the first time to win an exciting match. 42-4 L England was unable to relax at any stage of the match as Canterbury determinedly kept the pressure on. Both teams capitalised on mistakes early in the match, but Canterbury scored first, through Diana Sullivan, who replaced the injured Ann Davidson at goal shoot. Sullivan began nervously as Denise Hunter. England s goal keeper, repeatedly snapped up high, lobbed balls intended for Sullivan.

The combination of the outstanding English captain. Jillean Hipsey, at goal attack, and Chris Maylor, impressed but it was Canterbury which led, 11-8, at the end of the first quarter. However, England battled back skilfully and had much the better of the second quarter, to draw level, 20-20. In the opening minutes of the third quarter, Canterbury

missed four scoring chances, including a penalty’, but team morale .was kept* high with some fine intercepting by Leigh Gibbs, Lyn McLennan and Jan Henderson. While Canterbury’s defence conceded many penalties. it deflected enough balls to give its shooters plenty of scoring opportunities. Wai Taumaunu was able to subdue Hipsey and Canterbury began the final quarter with a lead of 31-27.

England steadily whittled back that advantage, until it levelled at 33-33. Scores remained close until England brought itself even at 42-42. Then from a throw near Canterbury’s goal, swift handling took the ball to Canter-

bury’s goal circle and Maylor made no mistake for the winning goal. s . A draw might have been a fairer indication of-a match which thrilled a capacity crowd, the only sour note coming from a group of spectators who chose to boo any decision which went against Canterbury.

The two curtain raisers resulted: Canterbury secondary schools 28. Canterbury Country under 20 11; Canterbury Country 41, South Canterbury 25.