Both premier one netball semi-finals will be live streamed to ensure supporters get a chance to see their teams in action on Thursday night, while crowds are still not permitted at matches.  

The back-to-back play off matches will be broadcast on Netball Taranaki’s YouTube channel from 6:45pm when five-time defending champions Tysons East play newly promoted side Tysons West.

The second blockbusting semi-final between Inglewood and Naumai will start at 8:30pm.

Volunteers live streamed three games at the end of August and attracted over 5000 viewers.

East are favourites going into the semi-final as it cruised through grading and championship rounds.

It only lost two matches against top four teams Inglewood and Naumai.

Coach Jane Parker-Bishop had the luxury of selecting a consistent team all year and will continue to use experienced players.

Amber Ormond, Nikita Roberts and Elizabeth Tuki will be crucial players for East.

Tysons West narrowly made the play-offs and were contesting the final position with New Plymouth Old Boys.

West were promoted to the premier one competition after winning premier two in grading rounds.

Bridget Kibby and Brooke Stewart both played premier one netball prior and will be used to the physical challenge it brings. Tara Morgan and Julie Butler are also key players.

In the closer semi-final, based on form, Inglewood is favourites against Naumai.

Just three points separate both teams as Naumai lost one extra game than its opposition.

Inglewood coach Sam Burkhart said the side is focused on playing the full 60 minutes.

“It’s something we really need to nail on Thursday.”

She said she has been impressed with the whole team with all 11 players bringing something different to the court.

Naumai are strong right across the court, she said.

“They play a good team game; they always have speed in their midcourt.”

Inglewood’s shooting circle has been consistent all year and will look to use Sam Murphy and Rebecca Major under the net again.

Naumai shooter Taylor Kahui was a pivotal player all season as she shot at long range with high completion rates.

Her combinations with centre Ricki Lockley and the midcourt is something coach Vicki Roberts will use.

As for the live streaming, Burkhart said the initiative has been good for the game.

“We have been able to showcase premier netball in Taranaki with a different playform and a lot of our supporters are really enjoying it. It’s good to reach the wider community of netball.”

She said hopefully it will encourage people to get alone to games once we move back to Level 1.

In Premier two, Raukura, Naumai, Stratford/Eltham and Sacred Heart Girls’ College will play in the semi-finals on Friday.

In Premier three on Thursday, Hawera High School, Inglewood, Bell Block Marist Dragons and Stratford/Eltham play for final positions.