A mixed bag for Hawke's Bay on day one of the U17 Netball New Zealand Nationals. 

Hawke's Bay came up against a determined Hamilton City A in the first game of the competition. The conditions and slippery surface resulted in some tentative netball to start the game.  Hawke's Bay started slowly and struggled against a dogged defence which slowed the ball down and made it difficult for the players to get the ball to the shooting circle. After finding themselves 5-7 down after the 1st quarter, some strong drives from Asher Grapes and Parris Petera were successful in supplying the shooting combination of Janayah Lewis and Imke Kitchen to lead 15-14 at half time.

The second half saw Hamilton City apply more pressure throughout the court and forced Hawke's Bay to hesitate on attack, despite the determined work of the whole team to get possession. The circle defence combinations of Tabitha Coddington or Kiah McCorkindale with Valentine Kahukuru worked well to put doubt into the minds of the shooters during the game. Defensively the whole team averaged 12 turnovers per quarter, but poor attacking decisions throughout the court meant Hawke's Bay were unable to capitalise on the high turnover rate.  Coach Lee-Anne Taylor stated, “the girls are bitterly disappointed in their court play, particularly as they worked so hard on creating turnover ball, but couldn’t deliver to the shooters”. The team went down eventually 32-22. 

The second game saw the team look to put things right against Hutt Valley Gold, a team they had met twice before in pre-season tournaments, losing to them by two points and drawing in the last game. Assistant Coach Rebecca Martin stated, “the players came out far more determined and worked together to ensure they stuck to the game plan”. Imke Kitchin worked diligently to provide a clear space and angles for Janayah Lewis, Parris Petera and Asher Grapes who found her with ease and she converted well, shooting above 90% for the game. Kiah McCorkindale and Valentine Kahukura worked well in the defensive circle confusing the space and gained possession for the team. Jaimee Tapine and Ashleigh Poi shared WD duties and were strong bringing the ball down the court.  Liana Mikaele-Tuu and Maddison Kaye came on and contributed well in the attacking end to see Hawke's Bay take the game 46-33.

Tomorrow sees Hawke's Bay take on Gisborne and Marlborough; both must win games to make the top 16 cross over matches.