United beats Rata in Invercargill netball in 1978

Two unbeaten teams in the Invercargill netball competition in 1978, Rata and United had a fierce battle which resulted in a very exciting game.  The game was won 23-23 by the more experienced team United.  

The game resulted in a lot of contact by both teams and this could probably be put down to the pressure of the game and both teams desperate to win.  But effective refereeing ensured the players remained focus.  There was little wasted ball as both teams moved fast through the court to try and beat the defenders.  Rata was the first team to show the pressure and got a bit rattled when their goal keeper kept getting penalised, but settled on as the game went on.  United did not waste any energy and when the ball got to their goal circle, Heather McDowell, was up to her usual high standard and at half time the score was 11-10 to United
Play was halfted with only a few moments on the clock when Robyn Broughton, wing attack and who was directing play, pulled a muscle and had to be replaced.  Rata was unable to take advantage of this.
The game between Brigadiers and Rata B, was a stark contrast to the main game and although both teams played well it was a different level of netball.  Brigadiers played a great zoning game but it was the Collegiate shoots that sealed the game for them winning 24-17.

Reference:   The Southland Times May 1978.