TT Police in Helen netball final

CASTRIES: Barbados champion club Rangers will clash with title-holders Police Stars of Trinidad and Tobago in the final of the 2004 Helen of the West Netball Festival, having endured stiff semi-final matches at the Vigie Multi-Purpose Sports Complex on Thursday night. The Barbadian double crown club champions held off a spirited attack by the Defence Force team of Trinidad and Tobago, to emerge  47-40 winners, while Police Stars earned their  41-37 victory in extra-time. Defence Force were ahead at the first two quarters 16-10, 26-22, but the Rangers clawed their way back to a 37-32 advantage at the end of the third quarter. Goal shoot Cheryl Squires scored 35 of 47 attempts and  goal attack Olivia Walcott had 12 of 28.  Goal shoot Anastasia Wilson had a good night for the Defence Force, scoring 28 of 31 attempts, and Lystra Zamora 12 from 13.

The Police team seemed to have recovered from their defeat on the opening night of the competition to Rangers, lifting their game at the crucial late stage to spoil the aspirations of the local team Elite Strikers. The St Lucians were  ahead 35-34 when Police drew level just as the whistle for regular time went. Two five-minute periods of extra time were played and the Police team ran home  41-37.  Goal attack Donna Charles topped the figures for Police with 29 goals from 48 attempts, and goal shoot Beverley Hernandes 12 from 17. Goal shoot Deidra Mathurin netted 34 from 44 attempts, supported by Glata Gabriel (3/6).  Yesterday was a rest day in the tournament with the finals between Rangers and Police Stars set for this evening.  There will also be a play-off for third place between Elite Strikers and Defence Force. (CMC)