Coming off a challenging loss in Round 2, the VIP Frames and Trusses Tactix took out a thrilling 48-44 win against the Avis Magic moving into pole position in the ANZ Premiership.
The Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic had everything to lose, with two straight losses behind them, their defence dominating the game with intercepts, deflections and high turnover conversion, putting pressure on the Mainland Tactix from the opening whistle.
The Tactix shooters responded by taking cautious goal attempts, with Martina Salmon and Te Paea Selby-Rickit rejecting the riskier long-range two-point option, favouring safe singles.
A strong first quarter saw the red and black attacking the ball, sending the Magic’s unforced errors soaring and leading to a 15-10 lead to the visitors at the close of the first quarter.
Returning to court, two forced errors awarded the Magic two goals in close succession, with Coach Donna Wilkins urging the on-court seven to ‘slow down the game’.
Unfortunately the advice could not quite connect in the second quarter, with the Tactix losing the second quarter 15-9 and guaranteeing fireworks in the second half.
New comer Holly Mather returned to centre, and goal shooting veteran Ellie Bird entered the game, bringing a valuable 4cm height advantage into the circle.
Tactix defence worked overtime with the Jane Watson, Karin Burger and Holly Mather combination successfully boxing out the Magic’s shooters.
With Tactix midcourter Lokotui suspended for two minutes for dangerous play, the Magic tried mightily to use the one player advantage but commendably, the Tactix retained control of play, and allowed no extra points against them.
The final quarter started successfully, with the Tactix scoring off the Magic’s centre pass while a turnover from Magic captain Ameliaranne Ekenasio, brought the game to within two points.
A missed attempt at 2-points for the Magic sealed their fate, with the visitors slowing down play to comfortably take a 48-44 win.
During her post-match interview Tactix skipper Erikana Pedersen said her side played with heart, but still needed to work on protecting the ball ahead of their next match against second place Mystics.
The Tactix will be playing to a sold out crowd on Saturday 31 May, MainPower Stadium, Rangiora.
