Marist in magic form against Whaka Black | Rotorua Sport | Surfing, Rugby, Soccer, Football, Cricket in Rotorua

Experienced pitcher Phil Ngawaka proved the difference in helping MSM Magic neutralise Whaka Black during a Rotorua Softball Association men's premier one clash on Saturday.

Ngawaka was in outstanding form on the mound at the Rotorua International Stadium adding a new chapter to his already impressive club competition story. Pitching seven innings, Ngawaka faced 21 batters, recorded 14 strikeouts and gave away no runs.

Marist catcher Jason Gerbes said Ngawaka's performance was instrumental in their 4-0 victory over Whaka, but was quick to add it was part of a "real team effort".

Excellent pitching from both teams kept the game scoreless until Marist's Duane Bishop hit the ball to bring Austin Gear home.

Whaka's Mark Katene also enjoyed a strong day on the mound working hard to silence his opposition and was well supported by his team mates who at times delighted the small, but supportive crowd with some acrobatic fielding - particularly Mike Maniapoto, who recorded a hattrick after taking three impressive catches.

However, as the minutes ticked by, Marist continued to apply pressure and were rewarded when Lee Clark and Gerbes came home at the top of the fourth. Clark showed his running form again at the top of the sixth recording the fourth and final run for his Marist team.

In other premier one men's games Allstars beat Waiohau Two 15-1, Waiohau One beat Waikite Tigers 15-4 and in a game marked by some hard hitting and a vocal crowd, Tarewa Giants enjoyed a narrow 3-2 victory over Fordlands.

Having gone from strength to strength in recent weeks, Waiohau Development continued their good form on Saturday beating Awahou 10-1 in a premier one women's clash on diamond two.

Despite some strong pitching by Rae Te Whau, Waiohau swung into action at the top of the first when Huiarau Stewart and Valerie Natana put early points on the table, and Shelley Pene and Tangihaere Fox made base.

Taking turn at bat, Awahou tried to make amends but were shut down thanks to some smart fielding by the youngsters including an impressive high catch by Chrystel Peri.

At the top of the fifth the score was 7-1 after Awahou's Char Beckett smashed the ball into the outfield to bring a runner home. However, Waiohau weren't about to be outdone and brought three more runners home to record their first convincing win of the season - including a home run by Pene.

In other premier one women's game Waiohau Blazers enjoyed a 13-3 victory over Waikite and Owhata beat Whaka Blonz 10-2.

The game scheduled to be played between Allstars Women's and Ngati Hinekura was deferred and will be played within the next two weeks.

For full results see today's Daily Post