Dunn shines for Tactix against former team-mates

The Trident Homes Tactix secured their second straight ANZ Premiership win and third of the season after overcoming Te Wānanga o Raukawa Pulse 50-49 in a thriller.

The Pulse won all three meetings in 2022 making this year’s victory a pivotal moment for the improving Mainland side who were tested to the limit, finally breaking the shackles of the Pulse in the third quarter, before the Pulse almost snatched the victory with a late fight back.

In Rangiora all eyes were on how Tactix shooting recruit Aliyah Dunn would fare against her former Pulse teammates. Having been a prominent member of the Pulse sides that won three ANZ Premiership titles, Dunn was shown no mercy in an absorbing battle with Pulse captain and goal keep Kelly Jury.

While all the pre-match hype and excitement was focused on Dunn’s first match against the Pulse, the story was unfolding at the other end of the court.

Tall Pulse shooter Amelia Walmsley showed composure beyond her years against the rugged and uncompromising Silver Ferns defensive combination of Jane Watson and Karin Burger who used all their range and will against the talented 19-year-old.

The daughter of a Black Caps pace bowler, Walmsley showed she has the ability on the hold to take the ball under pressure. She plucked high balls and rebounds out of the air.

Walmsley’s shooting was accurate but best of all was the mental resilience to remain calm despite everything Watson and Burger could throw at her.

The fast-paced encounter demonstrated the incredible strength, energy and ability of both sides with just one goal separating these
outstanding teams after the first 15 minutes.

By half-time, no team had managed to break away, with the Pulse holding a small two-goal advantage.

The Tactix, off the back of some phenomenal defence, built a slim three-goal lead at three-quarter time.

The home crowd were thrilled to see the Mainland side hold on but there were some nervous moments as the determined Pulse nearly stole the game.

All in all, the action on court was of the highest level and will surely please Silver Ferns coach Noeline Taurua as she ponders her selections for the Netball World Cup.

The seasoned internationals like England’s Laura Malcolm, Pulse firecracker Maddy Gordon and Tacitix wing attack Kimiora Poi were
brilliant.

The Tactix will gain plenty of confidence knowing their attacking unit featuring Malcolm, Poi, Te Paea Selby-Rickit and Dunn is growing from game to game.