LIVINGSTON SCOTT, STAR Writer

Playing to their advantage helped Clarendon Gaters upstage last season's beaten finalists, St Catherine Racers, to advance to Friday's final of the Berger Elite Netball League, where they will meet St James Sharpes.

In Sunday's semi-finals at the Leila Robinson Courts, the Gaters defeated the Racers 35-33 while the Sharpes turned back Manchester Spurs 42-40.

The Gaters were led by inspired defending from veteran former national defender, Kacey Evering, and a mature all-round display from St Hugh's schoolgirl Kadian Duhaney.

"There were times when we were down and in mid-court we were struggling, but we decided to play to our advantage," said Evering.

"We are not quick, so we decided we would slow the game down, get into mid-court and get the ball to our shooters. Once we got the ball to our shooter, we knew it was a wrap."

The Racers with players such as Sunshine Girl AnnaKay Griffiths and Khadejah Williams, were expected to win, but in the last period, Gaters coach Dalton Hinds put Duhaney into the goalkeeper position and Simone Gordon in the shooter spot, a move which paid dividends.

Duhaney, who had 26 goals from 31 attempts, and Evering stifled the Racers attack.

For Racers, Griffiths scored 25 from 31.

Manchester Spurs were on the brink of creating another upset, but after inspirational goalkeeper Vangalee Williams sustained an ankle sprain and had to be substituted late in the final quarter, the Sharpes clawed their way back.

Deneen Taylor top scored with 35 from 38 attempts. For Manchester, Shantel Slater had 26 from 37.

Sharpes' coach, Jennifer Sharpe, said victory was always on the cards.

"When the league started, we were looking at reaching this point, and once we get to the final, we will win," she stated.