Garin centre Hannah Stevenson looks to get the ball to her shooters against Marist Black in their Nelson Netball senior 1 game at Saxton Stadium on Saturday. Photo: Jacob Page

Marist defence too strong for Garin

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Marist Black held Garin A to just seven goals in each half to prevail 29-14 in their senior 1 netball game at Saxton Stadium on Saturday.

The opening quarter saw both teams looking rusty. The only consistent element of the first 10 minutes was turnovers.

Both teams struggled to bring the ball through the court with Marist earning a 6-4 lead in a forgettable opening for both teams.

Marist extended their advantage with the first two goals of the second quarter and their defence continued to create turnovers and held-ball situations.

The problem was, Marist turned over a lot of ball in the attacking third which prevented them from extending their lead quicker.

Marist goal shoot Celeste Dempster proved accurate enough to keep her team in front, but both Garin and Marist were guilty of rushing passes.

Despite it all, Garin remained in touch. Garin goal defence Georgia Clarkson had a strong second quarter but late shots from Dempster ensured Marist led 12-7 at halftime.

Marist wing defence Kate McCaskin won some crucial ball for her team in the third quarter as goals continued to be at a premium for Garin, who had to rely on their extra height in the shooting circle to gain offensive rebounds. The Marist shooters found their rhythm in the third quarter and extended the margin to 20-8 at one point.

Garin hit double figures late to cut the margin to 10 heading into the final quarter. Marist tried to play up tempo in the final quarter and with victory assured they edged to the final whistle.