Sport + Motorsport
The Northern Mystics beat the Southern Steel 61-53 in extra time on Sunday, climbing to the top of the table in a classic contest at Stadium Southland.
After 60 minutes of regulation play ended 52-all, the Mystics dominated extra time 9-1 to claim the Georgina Memorial Trophy contested between the two sides.
It was the Steel's second straight week of extra time. They came away empty-handed, missing out on both the win and a bonus point.
The Steel played without captain Kimiora Poi, ruled out through injury. The enforced reshuffle saw Queenslander Jessie Laga'aia make her New Zealand debut at centre after playing for the Queensland Firebirds.
The Mystics tested their depth by starting Katie Te Ao at wing defence and sliding captain Michaela Sokolich-Beatson to goal defence. Their defensive pressure was oppressive early, helping them bolt to a 16-9 first-quarter lead.
Peta Toeava and Tayla Earle drove the Mystics attack with speed and accuracy. When they scored the first three goals of the second quarter, it looked ominous for the home side.
But the Steel turned the tide. Aliyah Dunn anchored the attack with her court craft and accuracy, while goalkeeper Carys Stythe provided impetus with relentless ball-hunting.
The Steel worked their way back methodically, levelling the scores with seconds remaining in the half. They mirrored the Mystics' first-quarter dominance to reach the main break tied 25-25.
The third quarter was a physical battle. The Steel shot to a four-goal lead early before being reeled in. The introduction of Charlotte Manley at goal defence helped the Mystics shut down the scoring flow.
Filda Vui and Wilson showed great timing in the circle as the Mystics levelled with two minutes left. A late Vui two-pointer gave them a 40-38 lead at three-quarter time.
The final quarter remained tight until extra time, where the Mystics' experience told. They outclassed the Steel in the deciding minutes to claim a memorable victory and top spot on the table.