Canterbury V Waikato
The game started in fine conditions as the eye of the storm hovers over Palmerston North, with relatively calm conditions , compared to the weather in other parts of NZ
Conditions are however slippery and ball handling becomes more difficult as the ball picks up moisture. As the game progressed persistent rain set in, which for a period of time became quite heavy. In the last five minutes of the game the rain stopped
Both teams adopted wet weather touch suited to the conditions. Yardage, field position and retaining possession became the key focus. A 1-1 score at halftime was indicative of the conditions, from two teams that have scored plenty of touch downs over the past two days of play.
Waikato scored with 8 minutes to go, creating the decisive break in the game. Kelsey Berryman scooped and got into the in goal for Canterbury with 30 seconds of play left, but was unable to unload the ball and complete the scoring play. Waikato ran out winners 2 – 1, to go straight to the final this afternoon. Canterbury will play off against Counties Manukau for the right to play Waikato in the final
Robyna Hokai was exceptional for Waikato, and has improved with every game
Kapiti Horowhenua V Counties Manukau
This game was played at the same time as the Waikato V Canterbury game, with all four top women’s teams experiencing the same weather conditions. Kapiti Horowhenua were particularly pleased to have achieved a top four ranking, and can be justifiably proud of their achievements at this tournament
Counties Manukau were made to work hard in the first half and lead 4 – 2 going into half time. Shay Marie Pidduck has been exceptional for Kapiti Horowhenua, and was again their mainstay in this elimination game.
Counties Manukau ran away with the game in the second half scoring 3 uncontested touch downs
NZ Open Women’s representative at WC2011, Tyla Nathan Wong, has been strong for Counties throughout and they will look to her experience as they go into their elimination game against Canterbury later this morning
Final score Kapiti Horowhenua 2 Counties 7
Last Modified on 03/03/2012 09:34