The match between Black Gold and Clutha in South Otago netball took a while to get going.
But with some fine play by Black Gold attackers Mona Waikato and Christina Johnston, the gold side was ahead 10-4 at the end of the first quarter.
The second quarter had some good defence throughout the court from both teams, especially Black Gold goal defence Bridget Holgate.
She and her partner in the circle Hannah Phillips, forced turnovers and made it hard for Clutha shooters Bailee Hutton and Holly McCammon to get the ball.
Once Clutha had the ball in the circle, the shoots were able to put it through the hoop.
Down the court, Emily Melville worked hard and picked up a great intercept.
The halftime score was 18-13 to Black Gold.
Coming out in the third quarter, Clutha put on a strong zone defence throughout the court which worked well, leading into turnovers which were converted at the post.
Hutton was shooting very accurately.
Catherine Korteweg assisted Clutha with her speed down the court.
Fast passing and a continuing great relationship in the circle from Black Gold's shooters had the side pulling away from Clutha and the score was 28-20 to Black Gold.
In the final quarter, Clutha goalkeeper Kerryn Veitch started to make an impact in the circle with her rebounding, and with Melville taking intercepts through the court, but unfortunately Clutha was struggling at the other end to sink the goals.
Black Gold's Amy Morrison took a couple of intercepts in a row which were finished with goals.
Overall, the game was physical and fast, with lots of turnovers. Black Gold came through to win 37-25.
It sets up a great game next round between between the two top teams, Black Gold and School A.
