Eden-Roskill back in winning form

Seven wins in a row have taken Eden-Roskill to a secure fourth spot in the Auckland fastpitch softball championship after a 10-3 win over Glenora at Eden’s May Road stronghold.

Once the dominant club in the country, Eden twice slumped into lower grades, before fighting their way back into the premier division.

Under player-coach Duane Jerard, pitcher Taiki Apu and a combination of young players, the club has carved its way through the also-rans as it chases rivals Mt Albert Ramblers and Auckland United. Meanwhile, United and Ramblers, tucked in behind Wai-takere Bears in the title race, had a weekend break, with players out at a second tier national championship.

For Ramblers’ women, Saturday was a productive time.

Led by the able veteran Tuhi Cooper, Ramblers went to the top of the table with two wins over 2008 national champions Marist.

Despite one shaky innings in the first match when Marist scored three runs, the side gave away no further runs, winning 10-3 and 7-0 in games shortened by the mercy rule. Cooper, Jonelle Mase and Jarrah Tuoro were the stand-out batters and pitcher Sally Bowden showed her continued improvement.

Competition strugglers Metro had a bright game against Hibiscus Coast on Saturday, going down 12-10.

On Saturday in men’s action Eden plays Northcote at Rosedale Park from 4pm, Ramblers take on Hibiscus Coast at Warren Freer Park from 5.30pm and United clash with Glenora at Harold Moody Park from 3.30pm.

In the women’s competition, Ramblers face Waitakere on Saturday at Warren Freer Park at 1.30pm, while Metro clash with fast-rising rookie club Western Magpies at 1.30pm at Phyllis Street.

Men: Bears 20 (11 games), United 16 (9), Ramblers 14 (9), Eden 14 (10), Marist and Northcote 10 (9), Hibiscus Coast 6 (9), Howick 6 (10), Roosters 4 (12) and Glenora 2 (11).

- © Fairfax NZ News