Val Smith and Lisa Prideaux have claimed their second New Zealand title in three years at the Summerset Nationals in Auckland.

They have come from 15-8 down to beat Dale Rayner and Selina Smith 17-16 in the final of the women’s pairs at Carlton Cornwall.

Smith and Prideaux scored a two on the 18^th and final end to snatch the crown from their fellow composite combination.

Val Smith was typically modest about her contribution in the title decider.

“I think Lisa was the star of the show for us today you know the consistency of her draw,” Smith said.

“I had really no idea on the draw I just was fortunate enough to chip in at some critical moments.”

They also made the semi-finals at last year’s nationals, having found a “successful formula”.

“We kind of have a fairly laid back approach when we’re together. We enjoy each other’s company both on the green and off the green.

“Lisa’s got a good way of being away to just make me laugh when the moments get tense and it works.

“We came through some really tough games in section play but we managed to scrape it out and I think it was just due to the fact that we were able to take a fairly laidback don’t care kind of approach,”

“So if it goes against us so be it, but so far it’s actually worked for us, it’s kept us relaxed.”

It is Val Smith’s sixth national title and Lisa Prideaux’s second.

Results:

Women’s pairs – semi-finals – Val Smith & Lisa Prideaux (composite) beat Sue Curran & Paula Kempthorne (St Heliers) 18-11 and Dale Rayner & Selina Smith (composite) beat Tayla Bruce & Clare Hendra (composite) 13-11.

Final – Val Smith & Lisa Prideaux beat Dale Rayner & Selina Smith 17-16.