Mystics Get Better Of Stars In Northern Derby
The Go Media Stars have been well beaten 67-47 by their Northern rivals the Mystics in their round 8 ANZ Premiership match at Pulman Arena, their last home game of the season.
The Stars showed many encouraging signs in the first period, despite trailing 17-13 at quarter's end.
Starting at goal shoot, Charlie Bell was strong under the hoop, imposing herself and winning the contest in the air to keep the scoreboard ticking over.
The Stars managed to force a number of errors out of the Mystics but frustratingly couldn't make it count enough to make them pay, though Lisa Mather was a terrier in the wing defence bib and Remi Kamo and Julia Wynands working tirelessly in the defensive circle.
The Mystics went on a late run to cement their lead heading into the second quarter, with goal shoot Donnell Wallam strong.
The Stars remained competitive in the second quarter, with some determined play throughout. The injection of Lili Tokaduadua at goal defence added some pace and relentlessness, as Tokaduadua executed some important gains to keep the Stars in the fight.
The Mystics were able to keep the persistent Stars at arm's length, with the Stars inability to convert from the two point zone hurting them as they gave away possession and were punished.
The Mystics finished the half with the upper hand, ahead 31-24 at the break.
The second half was a tough affair for the Stars, as they struggled to break the momentum of a classy Mystics side.
Much like the narrative has been all season though, the Stars refused to give up and still fought for every ball and tried to create opportunities with ball in hand until the very last whistle, with the Mystics coming away with a victory.
Captain Maia Wilson donned the goal shoot bib in the second half and showcased some of her well-known power play. Wilson was rock solid in front of goal when the ball found her, shooting 100%.
Kamo and Tokaduadua were dogged throughout the whole contest and combined for six gains.
The Stars next head to Christchurch to face the Tactix on Sunday.
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