Pirates down Barracudas, fall short against Krakens in round 13 of the Karratha Water Polo Association

Round 13 was an unlucky number for some as exclusions hampered efforts in the pool at Karratha Leisureplex on February 3.

The Pirates women faced their first double-header for the year and were looking strong in their first match against the Barracudas.

Dani Smith and Meredith Bailey were back in the water supported by new town arrival, Jess Owen.

Two goals down in the first half, the ‘Cudas fought back thanks to a valiant effort from Sophie Morton and Louise Perkis who each scored a goal seeing it all level at half-time.

The second half remained tight, but a number of major fouls on the Barracudas’ behalf — including three from Ashleen McGovern — led the Pirates to their treasure, seeing the game end 7-5.

It was against the Krakens that the Pirates women battled to keep their cool.

Ebony Hennessy and Simone Fountain made for a tough defence and utilised Hennessy’s speed in counter attacks to bring home the win.

Elle Pound stepped in as Krakens’ goalie for the second half, making a number of impressive saves.

Deb Watts, Meg Stacy and Holly Childs all scored goals in their B grade match for the Trouts, keeping the game agonisingly close until the final siren.

But it was Hayley Rigby who dominated on the night, putting away four goals for the Wahoos and bringing her team to a 9-7 victory.

In the men’s A grade, the Barracudas were no match for the Krakens who dominated the pool with a 10-3 win.

Rhys Knight, Nigel Kroonstuiver and Jake Patten all looked confident in attack, scoring seven goals between them and earning all six referee points.

The Pirates men took home the win in their match against the Sharks, but it was not without controversy as three Sharks players were kicked out on three major fouls each, hampering their efforts in the final quarter.

Justin Angove continued his winning streak, putting away six goals on the night while Paul Hazelwood showed dominance in goals for the Pirates.