Top spot on the line for Magic
Press Release July 2, 2009
Sitting pretty a few days ago, Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic have subsequently slipped into a pressure-cooker situation heading into the final round of the ANZ Championship netball competition.
A couple of surprise results in the latest round have conspired to heap a lot more pressure on the Magic’s bid to claim the minor premiership ahead of the finals series.
Already assured of a top-two finish, the Magic have to win and win well against the Thunderbirds in Adelaide on Sunday to gain a home semifinal ahead of the Melbourne Vixens.
The Vixens received a massive boost to their percentages with a 28-goal demolition of the Canterbury Tactix on Monday. Equal on points with the Magic, it has given the Melbourne franchise an edge going into this weekend’s final round of the regular season when they will meet the bottom-placed Central Pulse.
Magic still enjoy a slightly higher goal differential but their final outing of the regular season is by far the more challenging of the two front-runners.
``It has always been in my thinking that it was going to come down to the last two games being hugely important for us,’’ Magic coach Noeline Taurua said. ``So, this is not anything new that I haven’t figured out already.
``The first thing for us is treating it like any other game and going for the two points. We just want to concentrate on our own game plan, try and get the two points and anything that happens after that is a bonus.’’
With the Vixens playing before them this weekend, Magic will know exactly what they need in terms of goal ratio.
But Taurua is keen for her team to just concentrate on the win, anything else would be a distraction and more than likely have an adverse effect.
Ironically, Magic have been quietly preparing behind enemy lines all week after carrying on to Adelaide following their win in Perth last weekend. Caught out by the weather, the Thunderbirds were unable to leave Dunedin on time and were still making their way home on Wednesday after their upset loss to the Steel.
``We will have to lift to another level this weekend…..the Steel haven’t done us any favours,’’ Taurua said.
``After a loss you always want to come back and redeem yourselves, especially at home.
``The Thunderbirds are very physical. Their ability to force turnovers out of their opponents through constant pressure is very high so they will be out to give us a torrid workover.’’
Taurua is not surprised the order of the top four will not be finalised until after the 14th and final round.
``The hardest thing about this competition is being able to stay on top of your game for four months,’’ she said.
``You are going to have natural ebbs and flows so you have to be strategic about how you ride those changing circumstances. I don’t think it’s realistic to be able to peak for four months.’’
The coach gained a lot of positives after Magic finally got the breakthrough win for New Zealand teams in Australia, against the West Coast Fever last weekend.
``That game was probably one of the most mentally demanding we have played this season,’’ she said.
``In terms of the demanding flight time, having our body clocks out of sync and the timing not quite right on court, it was a huge game for us and we have taken a lot of confidence out of it.’’
Jane Hunt
Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic publicity
Ph: 021-107-0287
Magic break Kiwi hoodoo
Colourplus Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic broke a long-standing record with their 49-38 ANZ Championship win over the West Coast Fever in Perth on Sunday.
Decked out in a new-look predominantly yellow strip, the Magic became the first New Zealand team to win on Australian soil. The visitors retained their top-of-the-table status after finally breaking the hoodoo that New Zealand teams had been denied in 20 attempts and stretching over 26 rounds.
It was a well-constructed win by the Magic, the difference being in the shooting returns.
The Magic rode home on the back of a near-flawless shooting performance from the age-less Irene van Dyk. The young Fever team, still a slim chance to make the play-offs with a win today could not match the visitor’s accuracy. Van Dyk finished with just two misses with 30 goals from 32 attempts.
The Fever were forced to go into the match without creative goal attack Bianca Franklin, who is struggling with a torn calf muscle. Nikala Smith took that role in an otherwise predictable line-up.
The only surprise in the Magic line-up was dynamic defender Casey Williams taking her place at goal defence rather than marking up directly against key Fever shooter Caitlin Bassett.
After an even start, the Magic gradually worked their way into a handy lead, the defensive prowess of Williams and Leana de Bruin proving influential.
The Fever struggled to penetrate their attacking third and required steady and patient build-ups. Bassett and Smith struggled to shake the persistent presence of de Bruin and Williams who created plenty of problems for the Fever shooters.
The Fever’s conversion rate faltered as Williams, in particular, reeled in a host of rebound ball.
At the other end of the court, van Dyk was a model of consistency. Good flow on attack coupled with the super shooter’s timing and accuracy under the hoop propelled the visitors to a 14-9 first quarter lead.
It was the Fever who came out firing on the resumption. The midcourt pairing of Shae Bolton and Madison Browne provided the impetus on attack while Bassett shed her first quarter nerves with greater accuracy on the shot.
Towering 1.96m defender Susan Fuhrmann gave van Dyk a run for her money with some smothering play as the Fever backed up their efforts to drew level midway through the quarter.
The Magic responded in kind with a withering burst as their talent-laden line-up lifted the tempo. The flow returned for the visitors who re-established their timing in a scoring spree to leave the Fever falling away.
The ever-green van Dyk was back to her dominating best with a perfect 16 goals from 16 attempts as the Magic headed into halftime with an increased lead at 26-19.
While the Fever looked threatening on occasions during a competitive third quarter, the Magic retained their edge. The home team’s shooting rate continued to run hot and cold which restricted their chances of mounting a serious challenge.
Respective centres Laura Langman and Bolton had a terrific battle throughout, Langman directing the Magic’s forward flow and proving a great rapport with van Dyk.
In contrast to the Fever shooters, van Dyk, ably supported by some long range bombs from Maria Tutaia, continued her perfect record through the third quarter as the Magic went into the last break with a comfortable 38-29 lead.
The Fever continued their solid defensive form through the final quarter but the Magic’s overall dominance and their defensive pressure, in particular, put paid to any chance of a home team upset.
Win in Perth vital for Magic
Press Release June 24, 2009
Gaining a positive result in Perth looms as the biggest hurdle standing between the Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic and a home semifinal in the ANZ Championship netball competition.
With just two rounds of the regular season remaining, Sunday’s clash against West Coast Fever might not seem as threatening as that posed by the well-credentialed Adelaide Thunderbirds a week later. But there are other factors that could throw a spanner in the works for the Magic this weekend.
``Perth is the big one for us because of the turnaround time from the last match, the travel and the different time zone with the match being played at 12.30pm local time,’’ Magic coach Noeline Taurua said.
Sitting in sixth place with five wins, the Fever have made big strides from their ninth place finish of last year during which they won just twice.
A young team stacked with a clutch of talented Australian under-21 players, Taurua is wary of their capabilities especially playing at home.
``Their youthful exuberance and passion make them dangerous,’’ she said.
``They are very good at just keeping at you and they certainly have the ability to knock anyone off on their day.’’
The 1.92m figure of promising goalshoot Caitlin Bassett is the Fever’s key weapon and she is well supported by an industrious midcourt and feisty defensive line.
The Magic returned to the top of the table on the back of a stuttering and none-too-convincing four-goal win over the Canterbury Tactix in the last round which highlighted too many basic turnovers.
It was an outing that left Taurua with few positives but the testing workout provided by the Tactix could yet prove timely.
``We had high expectations of ourselves and what we were capable of doing but once again our lack of mental application was highlighted,’’ she said.
``We have to take the positives out of it where we were put under pressure and had to battle away until about the last seven minutes before we started to get our act together.
``But against other teams we might not be so fortunate in being able to pull it back. In Australia we cannot afford to get ourselves into the situation where we are reliant on umpire calls.’’
Taurua said the lack of success by Kiwi teams in Australia did not put extra pressure on the Magic to break the 26-round losing streak.
``All we’re after is the two points, irrelevant of where we are playing,’’ she said.
``Knowing that everything is riding on us for a home semifinal is the pressure that’s on us at the moment so it doesn’t really matter whether we’re playing in Australia, Invercargill, at home or on Mars.’’
The Magic leave for Perth on Friday and will stay in Australia for the following week to prepare for their last round robin match against the Thunderbirds in Adelaide.
``There’s still a lot at stake for the front-running teams and nothing is a done deal yet so our focus is to win the remaining two games regardless of the permutations,’’ Taurua said.
Jane Hunt
Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic publicity
Ph: 021-107-0287
Magic win torrid clash
The Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic survived a torrid onslaught before snatching a 50-46 win over the Canterbury Tactix in ANZ Championship netball action in Rotorua on Monday night.
The seventh-placed Tactix pushed the table-topping Magic all the way with a tenacious effort driven by strong court defence and solid attacking momentum.
In the conditions, the Magic were unable to find their flow but gutsed out an important win ahead of their demanding two games on the road in Australia to round out the regular season.
Magic coach Noeline Taurua threw one of her curved balls by naming Irene van Dyk at goal attack for the first time this season with Maria Tutaia slotting in at goal shoot.
Impressive Tactix midcourter Maree Bowden started the match on the bench after suffering the effects of flu while captain Julie Seymour returned to the action after missing last weekend’s match through injury.
The first quarter proved an epic struggle from the outset with fortunes ebbing and flowing. Tight defensive efforts from both line-ups ensured plenty of early turnover ball with respective goalkeepers Casey Williams and Sonia Mkoloma being standout contributors.
The Magic enjoyed the greater share of the early ball but an off day under the hoop by Tutaia, who had just a 33 percent success rate in the first stanza, gave the Tactix extra opportunities. In a fair reflection, the teams were locked up at 10-all at the first break.
The Magic machine rumbled into life on the resumption, the home team scoring the first four goals as they looked to take command. Revelling in the extra space, van Dyk was in the thick of action to produce a spoiling effort on defence and showing her normal shooting accuracy.
As the Magic’s shooting percentages grew, it was the Tactix who came up short in the second quarter with Angela Mitchell’s radar off target.
Livewire centre Laura Langman fired some precision passes into the well-positioned van Dyk while at the other end of the court Williams was a commanding presence in snaffling Tactix ball as the Magic shot out to a six-goal advantage.
Resorting to a short, snappy passing game with Seymour and the versatile Phillipa Finch prominent, the Tactix produced a strong finish to the quarter with shooter Jodi Brown proving solid as a rock under the hoop.
The close battles between these two teams showed no signs of abating as the Magic went into halftime with a tenuous 23-21 lead.
There were changes aplenty from both teams for the second half. Van Dyk and Tutaia swapped positions while Leana de Bruin was introduced at goalkeeper for the Magic. The Tactix rejigged their midcourt with Bowden making an appearance along with goal attack Anna Thompson.
Both made a strong impact, the pair playing pivotal roles in helping the Tactix drew level before an absorbing and tense struggle ensued for the remainder of the quarter.
Showing the greater composure, it was the Tactix who made most of the running with the shooters finding freedom and accuracy while the visitor’s defensive screen kept the Magic’s flow to a minimum.
The Tactix held a three-goal edge before the Magic finished with a rush to sneak a 37-36 three-quarter time lead.
There was no quarter given in a tense and thrilling run to the wire where the lead continued to change hands after a flurry of turnovers.
In a reflection of their season, the Tactix were let down by unnecessary lapses at crucial times. The Magic were quick to pounce, taking advantage with greater accuracy in a strong finish with the evergreen van Dyk leading the way.
Magic look to sign off at home in style
Press Release June 18, 2009
A dominant showing in their last home game of the regular season is vital to the Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic’s run home in the ANZ Championship netball competition.
The Magic face a potentially tricky match-up against the Canterbury Tactix in Rotorua on Monday and finish their campaign in Australia against an improved West Coast Fever, in Perth, and the star-studded Adelaide Thunderbirds over the final two weeks.
Sitting at the top of the table and guaranteed a place in the top four along with the Melbourne Vixens, a strong outing against a rejuvenated Tactix would help set the demanding road trip off on the right note.
``We want to be in the best mental space possibly heading to Australia,’’ Magic coach Noeline Taurua said.
``Physically and condition-wise we’re fine. We’ve had no bad injuries and the weekly recovery rates have been good. We just need to be quite mentally tough when we hit Australian soil so the outcome of this match is very important in the whole scheme of things.’’
Showing impressive form to knock the unbeaten Vixens off the top of the perch and sustaining the impetus against the winless Central Pulse over the last two weeks, the Magic are hitting their straps at the right time.
Playing the top and bottom placed teams in successive weeks has tested the Magic’s mental resolve at both ends of the spectrum. The clash against the Pulse proved the most challenging but it marked another step in their progress.
``It was a huge mental challenge in being able to keep the discipline against a lower ranked team and that showed in spurts against the Pulse,’’ Taurua said. ``But on the whole it was quite good…..the Magic of old would not have handled it to the same degree of efficiency.’’
A buoyant Tactix reversed a string of narrow losses to upset the well-performed Queensland Firebirds last week for their best result of the season. They showed more than enough enterprise to keep the Magic wary.
``It’s the same situation…..there are two points on offer and it’s all about the quality of our performance. That focus will never change from week to week,’’ Taurua said.
``But the over-view of all that is in the next three games we could be placed first, second, third or fourth, depending on how we perform.’’
After squeaking past the Tactix by just two goals in round five, the Magic can expect a decent workout from the hard-working southerners who, with nothing to lose, are likely to throw caution to the wind.
``I’ve always rated teams that come out of Canterbury,’’ Taurua said.
``They do the simple things well, are nuggety and have low ball turnover. They will nail anybody if they do all those consistently from quarter to quarter. They have the ability and potential to take down any top team.’’
Aware of all the permutations surrounding the make-up of the top four for the finals series, Taurua said it was important for the team to just focus on the win.
``For me as the coach, I am mindful of the next game and the following game. It’s worrying about today but also knowing it’s going to impact on us tomorrow. That’s my lookout at this stage and I don’t want to clutter the players with that.’’
Taurua is happy with how the Magic’s game has progressed in recent weeks. In terms of structure and game plan, she believes the team delivers it about 90 percent of the time now.
``There’s still polish to be added,’’ she said. ``It’s now about the fine tuning and we’ve still got three weeks to be able to do that.’’
Jane Hunt
Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic publicity
Ph: 021-107-0287
Magic outclass Pulse
Colourplus Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic notched their biggest result of the ANZ Championship with a telling 67-35 win against the Central Pulse in Wellington on Sunday.
It was not the perfect performance but with one eye on goal percentages ahead of the play-offs, the Magic were keen to sink as many opportunities as possible in this outing.
In the end they got their wish, putting put up a compelling 78 attempts to the Pulse’s 42 as well as giving several bench players some important game time.
The Pulse were once again, forced to go into a match without damaging defender Althea Byfield, who is still battling the effects of concussion.
It was a near as possible top line-up presented by the Magic, with the exception of Jodi Tod, who lined up at goal defence ahead of the pregnant Leana de Bruin.
Both teams provided a rollicking start in a festive type atmosphere. The intent from the Magic was clear from the outset, firing the long, quick ball to Irene van Dyk whenever possible.
The ploy paid off as the Magic gradually settled into their work after a frantic opening to build their dominance with a flurry of goals.
There was plenty of ball in the opening stanza for the Magic, who fed off numerous turnovers created by a stifling through court defence.
The Pulse were more than willing participants, enjoying brief passages of strong play but unable to sustain the effort against a potent Magic.
With Maria Tutaia in the groove and her long range shots proving clinically accurate, the Magic were well into their work to lead 16-8 at the first break.
The entertainment continued in the second quarter, the Magic moving the ball with dazzling speed at times. But on occasion they were guilty of playing ahead of themselves with errors creeping in.
However, the overall dominance of the visitors meant the Pulse were always on the back foot despite creating the odd turnover through the Magic’s over-exuberance.
The defensive trio of Casey Williams, Tod, who was prominent from the outset, and Joline Henry ensured the Magic enjoyed a superior flow of possession. Mercurial midcourter Laura Langman was always on hand to deliver a great service to the shooters.
Wing defence Ngarama Milner-Olsen was a livewire performer for the Pulse, covering huge tracks of the court as she often proved a thorn for the Magic while Bessie Manu was always a willing disrupter in the defensive line.
Lacking the same degree of possession, it was always going to be a struggle for the home team as the Magic rolled into halftime 31-18 ahead.
Williams and Tod swapped defensive positions for the second half for the Magic while Jess Tuki was introduced at goal attack for Tutaia.
With the result largely academic, the Magic lost some of their efficiency in the third stanza with some messy passages as the ball swung wildly back and forth.
However, the Pulse found life tough against the Magic’s defensive line as scoring opportunities were blunted by the continued pressure.
The Magic were unable to pull further away with the Pulse keeping them honest as the teams went to the final break with the visitors well in control at 46-28.
With a clutch of changes for the final 15 minutes and urgings from coach Noeline Taurua to show more thought in their play, the Magic marched relentlessly on. The score continued to mount as the Magic threw caution to the wind with Tutaia, re-introduced at goalshoot putting the gloss on a top individual outing.
Best yet to come, says Williams
Press Release June 11, 2009
Having laid one ghost to rest, the Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic face another test of their ANZ Championship netball identity against the Central Pulse, in Wellington, on Sunday.
The Magic left no doubts of their potency with a compelling performance to send the high-flying Melbourne Vixens tumbling to their first loss of the season in Monday’s 10th round clash.
However, how the table-topping Magic deal with the competition’s minnows will be just as much a test of character.
``This outing looms as a really important one for us,’’ standout defender Casey Williams said.
``It will be our real test of whether we won (against Vixens) just because it was a big game.
``We have not yet strung four quarters together. When we got up by 11 against the Vixens, that was brilliant and that’s what we should be able to do the whole time.
``If we could put that particular passage against the Vixens out in a whole game against the Pulse, it would be fantastic.’’
Knowing there is still a challenging road ahead, there was muted celebration after the Vixens colours were lowered. But there was also the over-riding feeling the Magic had turned a significant corner.
Far from clinical and even messy at times, the Magic impressed with their tenacity in a demanding challenge. The ability to find the balance between open, fluid movement and the dour arm wrestle needed to soak up pressure was pivotal to the Magic’s win but has been a long time coming.
``I know it’s taken us a while to get here but that’s only the start….the party’s just begun,’’ Williams said of the team’s progress.
``The whole mindset of just committing to Magic for the benefit of the team and not so much for the benefit of individual satisfaction is really developing and is a big shift from last year.’’
``Everyone is here for the team, they’re doing the hard work and you can see it.’’
Williams continues to leave her imprint on the competition in another stellar season.
Relishing a switch to the ranging role of goal defence this year, the long-limbed defender has continued to make big statements on court but is decidedly understated off it.
``I’m still learning the role,’’ she said.
``Most of the time I don’t really know what I’m doing but I just remember something you get told as a kid, which is…`stick to your partner like glue’ but also stick to the game plan for the benefit of the team.
``But I’m ready for it…..I love it. It’s something new and I enjoy it which is all I want out of it.’’
Williams laughs off the rave reviews she receives from all quarters on a weekly basis, deflecting the credit to her team-mates for ``setting her up for all the ball she gets’’. Set to turn 24 in a week, Williams is already being talked about as New Zealand’s best defender ever.
The demands of the competition appear to have caught up with the struggling Pulse, who had several brave outings earlier in the season. But it has been a battle in recent weeks, reflecting the team’s inexperience.
They will need a big lift in performance to keep the margin from blowing out while Williams is demanding another ``full team effort’’ to keep the Magic on track.
Jane Hunt
Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic publicity
Ph: 021-107-0287
Magic back on top
The Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic climbed to the top of the ANZ Championship netball table with a powerful 55-48 win over the Melbourne Vixens in Tauranga on Monday night.
Built on the back of an outstanding defensive effort and quality shooting, the relentless Magic eventually took control as they delivered the Vixens their first defeat of the season.
The Magic finally delivered the type of performance their star-studded line-up has promised throughout the competition as they assumed top spot on goal difference after chalking up their only loss six weeks ago against the Queensland Firebirds.
Both teams presented predictable starting line-ups, the Magic opting to retain the dynamic Casey Williams at goal defence while the Vixens welcomed the in-form Bianca Chatfield back from injury at goalkeeper.
The talent across both teams highlighted a number of intriguing individual match-ups which did not disappoint as the match progressed.
The visitors were fastest out of the blocks, putting the squeeze on the Magic’s attacking options with wing defence Renae Hallinan playing an effective spoiling role.
In a frenetic opening, the slick play of centre Natasha Chokljat and the combination of Sharelle McMahon and Caitlin Thwaites in goal gave the Vixens the early momentum.
The Magic were in some disarray on attack in the early exchanges as they struggled for timing but managed to find their feet on the back of some typically inspirational play from Williams.
In tandem with Leana de Bruin, the rangy defensive duo kept the Magic in the game with some quality play to stem the visitor’s flow.
Finding some fluidity on attack, a late quarter rally gave the Magic a narrow 12-11 lead at the first break with the ever-reliable Irene van Dyk converting 10 goals from 10 attempts.
There was no lessening of intent on the resumption, both teams muscling up as a titanic struggled ensued.
There was little scoring at times as the ball swung wildly between goals thirds as both teams challenged every play. There was no let-up in the bruising encounter with neither team able gain the initiative, the pair going goal-for-goal before the Magic got the smallest of edges.
With Williams and de Bruin continuing to excel, the Vixens shooters were denied their earlier freedom under the goal. At the other end of the court, the home team showed more patience on attack, van Dyk being the main beneficiary as she chimed in with a perfect scoring quarter of nine from nine.
Maria Tutaia also upped the ante, chipping in with some time long range bombs to give the Magic a 25-22 halftime lead.
The Vixens could not break the Magic’s desire in a big third quarter from the home team. Powerhouse midcourt defensive efforts from Laura Langman and Joline Henry set the Vixens back on their heels.
With the visitors’ attackers under pressure to find shooters McMahon and Thwaites, the ever-present Willams and de Bruin were on hand to pick up the spoils.
Growing in confidence, the Magic powered into a position of control as van Dyk and Tutaia propelled their side to a 39-33 lead heading down the home straight.
Another huge defensive effort and accurate finishing from the Magic denied the Vixens any thoughts of a last quarter comeback.
The Magic continued to create plenty of turnover ball and held their resolve as the Vixens, struggling to penetrate the defensive shackles, continued to do battle right to the end.
Vixens set to test Magic’s credentials
Press Release June 5, 2009
The Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic’s play-off credentials will go on the line in Monday’s top-of-the-table ANZ Championship netball clash in Tauranga.
Yet to fire on all cylinders, the second-placed Colourplus Magic have the chance to shed the lingering doubts about their consistency with a strong showing against an unbeaten Melbourne Vixens.
With five rounds of the regular season remaining, the jostling for play-off spots is set to intensify with the more accomplished teams expected to make decisive moves in upcoming rounds. For the Magic, it offers the opportunity to emerge from the pretender’s category into the real deal.
``We are getting into that important phase of the business end of the season now where the two points on offer each time is huge,’’ Magic coach Noeline Taurua said.
``The rest of the programme is a real defining time of where we are going to be placed in this competition…..of where we are placed in the top four or the possibility of not being in the top four at all.’’
Flush with Silver Ferns talent, the Magic remain an enigma. They will need to be at the top of their game throughout to have any chance against an equally star-studded but more accurate Vixens line-up.
The Vixens have set the benchmark all season. The uncompromising defensive duo of Bianca Chatfield and Julie Corletto, the super finishing skills of shooters Sharelle McMahon and Caitlin Thwaites and a polished midcourt has few chinks.
``They are a very good team with exceptional individuals that are leading the way statistically in all areas of the court,’’ Taurua said. ``They are well drilled and very structured. Both in attack and in defence individuals know exactly what they are doing and they go and do things with grit, determination and real commitment.’’
The coach said it was important the Magic focused on their own game rather than getting too wound up about the make-up of their opposition.
``There are key areas where certain individuals perform that make them feel in control so we will be looking at those,’’ Taurua said.
``But because they are so good as individuals and a team, we’ve really got to concentrate on ourselves. While we’ve still got a way to go in terms of consistency, we’ve also got a lot of strengths.
``Our main concentration has to be on a low error count and that when we have the ball in hand to make the best use of it. I want the high work rate that comes from playing with passion and high intensity.
``They have a hugely talented team so it’s more about concentrating on what we can control and that’s ourselves. If we can execute well, that will create pressure the other way.’’
Taurua has changed her views on home court advantage and is welcoming the showdown at Tauranga’s small and intimate QEYC venue.
A disbeliever in the past, Taurua said the Magic’s statistics show they perform significantly better at home than away. A far cry from the Vixens home stables at the State Netball Hockey Centre and Hisene Arena in Melbourne, she does not think the less salubrious surrounds in Tauranga will affect the visitors.
``I would like to think for us it does make a positive difference,’’ she said.
``It is small but that venue reminds me of the good old days. It is sort of old fashioned and you get the feel of the crowd, like they’re right on top of you and you can feel them breathing.
``I enjoy it there, it’s a great venue and it will be a good experience for the Vixens.’’
Jane Hunt
Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic publicity
Ph: 021-107-0287
Van Dyk honoured for services to netball (Feature)
Press Release June 1, 2009
As another birthday looms for Irene van Dyk, it seems even Mother Time cannot diminish the influence she still commands on the netball court.
Midway through the season and fast approaching 37 years of age, little has changed for the willowy Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic attacker who sits in a familiar position atop the ANZ Championship shooting averages.
Time and again the world’s most capped netballer has answered her critics by improving her own performance through meticulous planning, training, time and effort.
An inner quality that drives her to be the best she can be sets this outwardly engaging woman apart from her peers, who for 10 years has probably been the most talked about netballer in New Zealand.
There is little argument that emigration to New Zealand has made van Dyk the netballer she is today but on the other side of the coin, New Zealand has also reaped considerable benefits from this freakishly talented player.
Fittingly, the former South African has become a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM) for her services to netball in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list released today.
``I am stoked,’’ she said of her gong.
``I know I’m a New Zealander now and I know I’m not going anywhere but for me, coming from South Africa, this is amazing.
``It is incredible to be recognised for something you love doing and that it has come from the hierarchy of New Zealand, it’s just unbelievable.’’
Many great defenders have tried and failed to tame the world’s best finisher, who is adamant had she remained in South Africa she would not still be playing. The more likely scenario she reckons, would be ``mother of about five kids by now.’’
``There has been no looking back whatsoever, not for one minute,’’ she said.
``Because my mum was here with us for the first six months, she put the stamp on the fact that we were making the right choice.
``And when your mother says you are making the right choice, you know it is the right one. There are no regrets.’’
At 27, van Dyk was already at an advanced stage of her career when she arrived in New Zealand, forcing a complete overhaul of her game.
In the 10 years since, she has worked diligently to keep on top of advancing years and a body that’s had more than its share of knocks. Standing at 1.9m, van Dyk is not the most natural athlete but her perseverance has been justly rewarded.
Van Dyk was a professional long before such sentiments made their way into the netball world and she quickly became the sport’s pin-up girl after arriving here in late 1999. Driven to succeed, van Dyk’s exploits on the court and charming manner off it was a winning combination.
Always happy to give of her time, the affable markswoman is often still signing autographs long after her team-mates have disappeared into the dressing room. Generally surrounded by hordes of youngsters following a match she will – in typically school teacher fashion – engender a sense of organisation as she attends to them all one by one.
Van Dyk is immaculate in her preparation, both physically and tactically. She is her own biggest critic, along with cricket coach husband Christie, who remains a significant driving force in her career.
``I always analyse the defenders who will possibly play against me and our goal attack to see if there are any traits that we can pick up on,’’ she said.
``Being a goalshoot, I am quite attached to my goalpost so I like to see how defenders try and drive their opposites away from the post. I don’t want a defender to get too comfortable between me and my goalpost so I try to suss out what they are going to do and just to make sure I prepare myself better than they do for me.’’
Her motivation to keep going is simple.
``I think the fact that I learn new things every week when I hit the court,’’ she said.
``I look at goal attacks and new players coming through who do some spectacular things that I haven’t done and I think, `I would like to try that.’ I don’t think I will ever stop learning.’’
Ever the perfectionist, van Dyk is always looking for new ideas she can execute on court and has even gleaned a few tips from watching 11-year-old daughter Bianca’s team. One of which she tried against the Steel in the Magic’s most recent outing.
``I think some of the things they do are very cool and I should do them as well,’’ she said. ``There’s always things happening, even from the littlies, that I take on board.’’
Magic coach Noeline Taurua described van Dyk as a dream pupil.
``If I had 12 Irene’s it would be lovely,’’ she quipped.
``For me, she’s the ultimate package you could ever want in a player. On top of that, she’s a lovely person…..a genuinely caring, nice person. She’s a dream to coach, very receptive, very open and very caring for others.’’
Jane Hunt
Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic publicity
Ph: 021-107-0287
Talented Solia still finding her Magic feet
Press Release May 27, 2009
Long past the first flush of youth, a move to the Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic has nonetheless given Francis Solia the feeling her netball career is only just starting.
The seamless transition, expected by many, from being an ever-consistent performer in struggling teams for much of her career into one surrounded by an array of talent, has, however, not been all plain sailing.
There was a semblance of a return to old for Solia, 32, who showed glimpses of her prowess in the Magic’s latest ANZ Championship outing, a dominant 48-39 win against old foes the Southern Steel.
``This whole experience of moving has been very challenging for me,’’ Solia said.
``I’ve come into a new environment, a new style….new everything really and so it was down to me to adjust to them.
``Moving from Wellington to the Magic has challenged me in every respect. I was very comfortable in Wellington with the way we did things but coming into the Magic has meant I am on my toes all the time and always thinking.
``Making one of the elite teams makes you feel like you’re starting all over. Everything ahead of you is a challenge and that’s what makes it so good. I am demanding more from myself because I am being constantly tested across the board.’’
Apart from 2003, which she spent with the Canterbury Flames, Solia had played her entire domestic netball career in the capital which spans over 10 years. A regular for Samoa (latterly as captain), the energetic midcourter is blessed with natural talent where her changes of pace, sleight of hand and ability to change quickly from attack to defence make her a valuable acquisition.
Her own biggest critic, Solia judges herself harshly and while encouraged by the team’s outing against the Steel, only gives herself a five out of 10 for the season to date.
``I am still trying to find my best form,’’ she said.
``I have put off re-watching the game (Steel) because I know I will be a little disappointed in my own performance. I know I’m capable of doing more.’’
A dour struggle against the Northern Mystics the previous week spurred the Magic to take a hard look at themselves coming into the Steel clash which was a pivotal game in the context of their season.
``We made a huge effort from last week’s game (Mystics) in our through court play,’’ Solia said.
``We had identified that as being an issue that we had to address and in the Steel match we probably produced our best through court play to date.’’
At the crossroads this season, Solia has been rejuvenated with the Magic and looking to prolong her career.
``While I’m still not totally happy with my own performance, I’ve got no regrets at all in making this change,’’ she said.
``It has given me everything I need to continue that hunger to play netball.’’
After going winless with the Central Pulse in last year’s inaugural trans-Tasman competition, the bubbly little playmaker was euphoric when the Magic won their opening match of this season’s campaign. While it was a sense of business as usual for her team-mates, Solia could not contain her joy at breaking a 14-match losing streak.
``People think coming into a team like this that you will just slot in and things will be fine,’’ she said.
``But there’s a lot more involved to it and it was quite a daunting situation at the beginning.
``I certainly have no regrets. One of the reasons why I did it was to get out of my comfort zone because I had been comfortable for so long in the Wellington set-up.’’
The Magic have a bye this weekend before tackling the top of the table Melbourne Vixens in Tauranga on June 8.
Jane Hunt
Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic publicity
Ph: 021-107-0287
Magic stun Steel
The Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic proved their credentials as the best New Zealand netball franchise in the ANZ Championship with a compelling 48-39 win against the Southern Steel in Invercargill tonight.
Shrugging off some recent patchy form, Colourplus Magic dominated most facets with some stunning form as they put paid to the Steel’s opportunity of breaking into the top four.
Once again, it was the form at both ends of the court in shooter Irene van Dyk and defender Casey Williams who set the Magic machine rolling.
Visiting coach Noeline Taurua showed her inventiveness by
making the bold decision to start with the little-played Jess Tuki at goal attack ahead of Maria Tutaia. It proved an inspiring decision with the 1.85m Tuki combining superbly with the durable Irene van Dyk. The tall shooting duo was accurate on the shot with their height advantage also an important asset on the rebound for any rare misses.
Taurua also opted to play the dynamic Williams in the ranging goal defence role to help contain the dangerous Donna Wilkins while the Steel named a predictable line-up as they welcomed back captain Adine Wilson from injury.
The defence from both sides was intense but all the early impetus was with the Magic in a furious and torrid opening as the visitors went on to produce their best movement on attack this season with devastating speed and accuracy.
Clearing the clutter, the Magic resorted to safe long, high balls which invariably reached the safe hands of van Dyk, who was in inspiring form, both in general play and her shooting percentages.
The Steel were not doing much wrong but the odd missed goal and the Magic’s ability to turn the ball over on defence gave the visitors a 15-10 first quarter lead.
The Magic kept their foot to the pedal on the resumption with all players contributing to an at times scintillating performance.
Williams and her defensive partner Leana de Bruin made life tough for Steel shooters Wilkins and Wipiiti, whose accuracy fell away under the onslaught as the Magic continued to exert their dominance.
The Steel had to work overtime to breach the Magic’s smothering defensive screens while Laura Langman and Frances Solia were dynamic in the midcourt and around the circle edge. Solia returned by far her best game in Magic colours since transferring from the Central Pulse while Joline Henry was a strong distributor on attack and disruptive on defence.
Defenders Sheryl Scanlan and Katrina Grant were effective spoilers for the Steel but could not stop the quality and quantity of ball reaching van Dyk and Tuki as the Magic rolled into halftime 25-17 ahead.
Tutaia entered the game for the second half while the Steel rearranged their defence line which included Megan Hutton coming off the bench to help stymie the flow to van Dyk.
Inspired by a lift in intensity from an unusually subdued Wilkins, the Steel roared into their work in the third quarter to narrow the margin back to four. The Magic absorbed everything the Steel could throw at them, retaining their composure and making full use of their possession before once again, assuming control.
Battle as they might, the Steel could not break the shackles, the Magic remaining staunch as they increased their margin to 11 for a handy 40-29 advantage at three-quarter time.
The final quarter produced a flurry of turnovers, many inspired by the hard-working Scanlan for the Steel and the aerial skills of Williams for the Magic. But with the damage done early, there was no denying the Magic a convincing win.
Patience the Magic key, says Taurua
Press Release May 21, 2009
Patience is not a virtue readily associated with the Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic but one which has a growing significance in the run to the ANZ Championship netball play-offs.
The old Magic dynamism has been seen sparingly in recent outings but coach Noeline Taurua believes a change in style was necessary for the team be serious contenders at the business end of the season.
While not as pleasing on the eye and with the sceptics pouring cold water on Colourplus Magic’s recent form, patience and ball retention have now become the point of focus.
``We are playing a totally different type of game from what we are used to and what we are now trying to introduce is taking time,’’ Taurua said.
``It is also giving us a different look which people are probably viewing as a bit of a negative and wondering what is happening. But there are positives coming out of this and we are making strides in the new game plan.’’
There was little to enthuse over in a messy and bruising clash with the Northern Mystics this week but Taurua was quick to point out the end result was a 15-goal win and not all matches are going to be classic spectacles.
``It wasn’t a pretty game but we showed improvement in our patience with the ball,’’ she said.
``We are doing things differently to what is considered the Magic way. In the past we have wanted to get it down to the shooters’ end as fast as possible but ball retention is something we have been working on because we are not going to be allowed to play that free-flowing style all the time.’’
Taurua said the rigorous nature of the trans-Tasman competition meant keeping a game tight and playing with control were vital to doing well.
``In the past, we would have just turned and let it go, irrelevant of whether the conditions were on or not. And that cost us a lot of turnover possession,’’ she said.
``In a tough competition like this, retaining possession is the key. That is the mentality we need and have been trying to put into practice since we got exposed in the loss to the Firebirds in round four.’’
The Magic square off against old rivals the Southern Steel in round eight on Monday, in a clash of the New Zealand heavyweights.
Sitting just outside the top four and with a strong mix of current and former Silver Ferns in their stable, the Steel will fancy their chances at home.
The Magic prevailed by seven goals in the round two clash but the southerners have cast a spanner in the works in previous encounters and will be buoyed by the visitor’s patchy form.
``They will throw everything at us so our approach is to be mindful of the quality of netball that we need to put out there,’’ Taurua said.
``I’m reasonably happy with where we are as a team and our structure but individually we need to be able to maintain the intensity for the whole game under a huge amount of pressure.’’
The coach described it as a crucial game for the Magic before they head into the bye, which is closely followed by a clash with the table-topping Melbourne Vixens in round 10.
``Donna Wilkins is a big threat and plays a big part in that team,’’ she said. ``The last time we played them Adine Wilson did a very good job in distributing the ball to her shooters and defensively, they are dogged.’’
Key Magic shooter Irene van Dyk has recovered from a calf injury and goes into the match with the outstanding record of having never missed a goal against the Steel in three outings.
Jane Hunt
Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic publicity
Ph: 021-107-0287
Flat Magic too good for Mystics
The Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic continued their dominance over the Northern Mystics with a less than memorable 50-35 win in ANZ Championship netball action in Rotorua on Monday night.
The Magic maintained second spot on the table and would have just been grateful to pocket the two points from a messy outing.
With just the two wins to their credit this season, both against the struggling Central Pulse, the Mystics needed a positive result tonight to keep their slim play-off hopes alive.
But in the end, there was little either coach could take out of this match with their respective teams at contrasting ends of the table, in a flat display which failed to reach any great heights.
The Magic’s superior player power won the day where Irene van Dyk, Laura Langman and Casey Williams ensured a win was always in the keeping.
The Magic enjoyed the upper hand throughout the first quarter, the Mystics suffering the same problems that have plagued them all season as they failed to capitalise on their opportunities.
Unbeaten at home this season, Magic coach Noeline Taurua took no chances when naming a full-strength line-up while her opposite Te Aroha Keenan continued to mix up her options.
Imposing defender Vilimaina Davu returned to the Mystics starting line-up while Temepara George slotted into wing attack.
The Magic did not have things all their own way but the accuracy of van Dyk and Maria Tutaia in circle meant the home team always had their noses in front.
The Mystics could not deliver on their turnover ball as play often broke down before the ball reached the circle and when it did, they were let down by inaccurate shooting under the ever-present threat posed by intercept supremeo Williams. It left the Magic comfortably place 13-8 at the first break.
It was a more purposeful Mystics team who fronted up in the second quarter, the combined dynamism of George and England import Pamela Cookey, both on attack and defence, providing a spirited fightback.
With both teams showing little structure and guilty of throwing possession away, it was left to the long reach of custodian Williams to keep to the Magic on the front foot as she plucked a host of ball off luckless Mystics shooter Cathrine Latu.
It wasn’t attractive netball as the defence from both teams disrupted a flowing spectacle but van Dyk and Tutaia’s accuracy kept the Magic in the box seat at halftime with a 25-19 lead.
The Magic continued to push the score out in an error-riddled third quarter. There was little to enthuse about the play from either side as the match continued to deteriorate as a spectacle.
There was little flow involved as the match was reduced to a stop-start affair with numerous stoppages for penalties and injuries featuring. Van Dyk suffered a buffeting from old rival Davu in a bruising encounter but the odd flurry of positive play propelled the Magic to a match-winning 39-36 three-quarter time advantage.
Wholesale changes for the final quarter did little to improve the Mystics fortunes who ended up well beaten and almost certainly out of the running now for a spot in the play-offs.
Magic coach turns to positives
Press Release May 14, 2009
A disciple of dissecting match statistics, Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic netball coach Noeline Taurua is set to change tack for upcoming ANZ Championship matches.
With Colourplus Magic yet to show a consistent return on their potential, Taurua has decided to cut back on the analysis and place greater emphasis on the out-and-out positives.
Shooting percentages, scoring off turnovers and the brilliance of Casey Williams, who leads the individual interception count across the competition, are all areas where the Magic excel. Over-analysis of the negatives has not produced the desired turnaround in performance so it’s back to basics for Taurua.
``A lot of it comes back to me and just getting a measure on things,’’ she said.
``Sometimes I beat myself and the girls up too much over the statistical and analytical side. We’ve just got to go out there and play netball. We love the game so let’s get out there and enjoy it.’’
Initially not happy with last week’s 23-goal win over the Central Pulse which included a mixed bag ranging from the sublime to the ordinary, Taurua later stood back and took stock.
``On reflection, I have to take the positives out of it which include where we are sitting on the table (second) and the margins of our wins to date,’’ she said.
``Sometimes it is too easy to just look at the negatives and you can over-analyse. As a team, we are not too bad. The things that aren’t so good are more the individual errors so I have to try and keep the team and individual components separate.
``At certain times we do beautiful stuff and then the errors come through lapses of concentration from a few individuals. That’s where the focus needs to be now.’’
Taurua doesn’t deny that to make the playoffs, the Magic will need to be on the positive side of the statistical ledger across all areas of the court but believes a more conventional approach will benefit in the long run.
``There has to be a structure but sometimes it is a fine line between which way you let the team run – by a strict game plan or just letting the players have their head,’’ she said.
``When I look at the stats, on average we are winning our games by about 13 goals and it was only the Firebirds game (lost by 11 goals, in round four) where we had a hiccup. Until then we had been building so there are enough positives in there for us to run with it.’’
The Magic face a rematch with their first round opponents the Northern Mystics in Rotorua on Monday, a match they won comfortably won by 13 goals.
The Mystics haven’t fired many shots this season and have just two wins to their credit, both against the struggling Pulse. They have shown marginal improvement but will need to be at the top of their game to press the Magic in the round-seven encounter.
``We are just going back to the basics for this one,’’ Taurua said.
``I just want an understanding from my team of each other’s roles and of working the positives back into our game.
``We’re a very happy and together team off court and it’s a matter of transposing those feelings onto the court. When that happens we can deal accordingly to whatever we are presented with.’’
Jane Hunt
Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic publicity
Ph: 021-107-0287
Magic power away from Pulse
Two blistering quarters set Colourplus Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic up for a convincing 59-36 win over the Central Pulse in the ANZ Championship netball match in Hamilton on Saturday.
The Magic showed glimpses of their quality with some irrepressible play in the second and final quarters to keep the Pulse winless. While the return to form was encouraging, first and third quarter lapses meant it was not a complete performance.
Relentless pressure from the Magic’s back three of Casey Williams, Jodi Tod and Joline Henry, who stifled the Pulse on attack, provided the base for the home team’s overall dominancy.
The Pulse belied their positioning at the bottom of the table with confident opening as they matched their more illustrious opponents goal-for-goal in a competitive first 15 minutes.
Without the services of punishing Jamaican defender Althea Byfield due to concussion, the Pulse looked to under-21 player Hannah Broedelow, making her first start of the season, and the athletic Bessie Manu to shore up the threat of the Magic’s dangerous shooters.
Giving away plenty of height on defence, the Pulse were not afraid to have a go and performed admirably to ensure they remained well in contention.
Starting with Nicola Pettit at centre and Laura Langman at wing attack, the Magic were off the pace early, lacking flow and decisive movement as they were harried all the way.
Magic shooters Irene van Dyk and Maria Tutaia were uncharacteristically off target while Jamilah Gupwell shone at the other end for the visitors as the teams went to the first break on equal terms at 11-all.
The classy Langman ignited the Magic into life on the resumption, her strong drives to the top of the circle setting up her shooters in prime position as the home team put their collective foot down.
Clicking into overdrive, the Magic’s renowned flair and speed came to the fore as they took ownership of the game with a withering response.
Appreciating the timing and flow, van Dyk and Tutaia piled on the goals while at the other end, the Pulse’s conversion rate dried up. Williams was at her menacing best, collecting a raft of intercepts as she retained her status in the league as the leader in this facet of play.
In dominant mood, the Magic out-pointed the Pulse 20-7 during the second stanza as the swept to a commanding 31-18 halftime lead.
The introduction of a new shooter in the form of nineteen-year-old Te Amo Amaru-Tibble did little to change the Pulse’s fortunes as they continued to have trouble sinking their shots.
Frances Solia took over from Langman, who had taken a heavy knock earlier in the game, to take her place in the Magic’s attack line against her old team-mates.
The defensive trios provided plenty of ball for their respective teams in a sloppy third quarter where the overall quality of play deteriorated. Play swung back and forth between the goal thirds with a poor ratio of success in a low-scoring third quarter before a late flurry propelled the Magic to a 41-27 three-quarter time lead.
Langman’s return for the final quarter sparked some urgency back into the Magic’s performance as they lifted their intensity with a final telling burst.
The dominance returned and provided Magic coach Noeline Taurua the luxury of introducing Halana Leith (goal attack) and Elias Shadrock (wing defence) for their first appearances of the season in a decisive outing.
Magic at the crossroads, says Gunson
Press Release May 7, 2009
Astute netball judge Lyn Gunson believes the Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic need to re-invent themselves if they are to stay in the race for the ANZ Championship title.
Trying to dig themselves out of a slump following an unexpected ambush by the Queensland Firebirds and a scrambling two-goal win over the Canterbury Tactix, it is time for Colourplus Magic to change their ways, according to the former Silver Ferns captain and coach.
``They are capable of going all the way, they’ve got the ingredients of a good team but what I see is a slightly stalled team,’’ Gunson said.
``They need to break some chains they’ve got around themselves, whether it’s thinking, physical presence, physical skill or that whole concept of being a netballer, they’ve actually got to reshape themselves and move forward.
``I think Magic are at a stage where they’ve played together a lot and they need to regroup and push forward into the game. They need to do new things, create new units and activities otherwise other teams will just go past them. A professional environment will do that to you.’’
Gunson, who returned to New Zealand last year after eight years immersed in English netball in a variety of roles, including national coach, thinks within the next few rounds, the cream will rise to the top in the trans-Tasman competition.
``There will be a definite step forward by some teams….those that think, analyse well and continue to try and grow their team,’’ she said. ``Those teams, both as individuals and as a collective, will keep re-inventing.
``Any team in the top position has to continue to push the boundaries of the game. If you don’t keep pushing forward and trying to chance your arm, you’re going to get caught and really struggle.’’
Gunson said the New Zealand teams are not as far off the pace as it may appear and a host of reasons including age-group structures, playing numbers, different playing styles, umpiring and rule interpretations and their enforcement have contributed to the Australians having an edge so far.
``In Australia, the states are behind those teams and they almost actually own them and that is not the case here. So, even from that perspective, the structural set-up creates a difference in terms of preparation,’’ she said.
Coach of the Bay of Plenty Magic when New Zealand first launched a franchise-type competition in 1998 before they merged with the Waikato Wildcats the following year, Gunson now works for Netball North Harbour overseeing the development of the game in the region.
She does not favour all the changes the modern era of netball has brought with it.
``It’s much more aggressive, people are much more inclined to want to go for body blocks and physical characteristics like that and the game has definitely lost some of the subtleties that used to be involved,’’ she said.
``More people are prepared to go against the rules throughout the game and that’s put much more pressure on the umpires.’’
Magic coach Noeline Taurua is in tune with Gunson’s thoughts and has been working towards producing a more watertight structure from her talented but sometimes wayward line-up.
The coach is likely to introduce some changes for Saturday’s sixth round match against the winless Central Pulse in Hamilton where she is looking for a more complete performance.
``The loss to the Firebirds taught us that any team on any week can beat anybody else and that includes the Pulse,’’ she said.
``We’re still working on our connections through court and just doing the basics and the simple things well which are still a long way off.’’
Jane Hunt
Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic publicity
Ph: 021-107-0287
Magic sneak home against Tactix
Colourplus Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic had to dig deep before repelling a tenacious Canterbury Tactix 50-48 in fifth round ANZ Championship netball action in Christchurch on Saturday.
Losing in overtime in the last round, the Tactix once again came within a whisker of upsetting one of the more favoured teams with a telling challenge before falling just short.
Stung by their big loss last week, the Magic’s greater composure and the exploits of the inspiring Casey Williams, who stole the last intercept to ensure the win, and ever-reliable shooter Irene van Dyk ensured they returned to the winner’s circle.
Following the manner of their loss last week, the Magic tweaked their line-up with Leana de Bruin taking up the goalkeeper position and Casey Williams in the ranging role of goal defence. Laura Langman took up the wing attack bib with Frances Solia going into centre.
It was not vintage Magic by any means, but the visitors showed much better ball security and purpose than their last outing to take the early advantage.
Slow to get going, the Tactix worked solidly into the game to make the Magic’s flow difficult but on the back of patient build-ups, the accuracy of van Dyk and Maria Tutaia in goal slowly edged the visitors into a healthy position.
Defenders Sonia Mkoloma and Charlotte Kite turned up the heat to secure extra ball for the Tactix but they were impeded by a lack of accuracy under the hoop as the Magic took a 13-9 edge into the first break.
The tempo lifted considerably on the resumption after the dour opening as a torrid defensive battle ensued. Both teams employed effective stalling tactics as the match turned into a hard-fought grind to thread the ball through court.
The Tactix midcourt efforts frustrated the Magic, who could not get their desired free-flowing style in motion while the work of Julie Seymour and Maree Bowden around the circle edge delivered some well-timed possession into the goal circle.
In a tight slug-fest, the Tactix had a small edge through the second stanza to win it by one as the Magic kept their noses in front 25-22 at halftime.
With van Dyk double-marked for much of the game, Tutaia stepped into the breach. Her effortless gliding runs and accuracy from wide out keeping the Magic on the front foot while also proving her worth on defence with a couple of important intercepts.
In a surprise move, Magic coach Noeline Taurua opted for second half changes, the main one being the introduction of promising young shooter Jess Tuki for the well-performed Tutaia. Jodi Tod also came on to replace de Bruin.
There was more movement from both teams, particularly the Tactix, in an absorbing third quarter with neither taking a backward step. Time and again, the home team pulled to within two goals but untimely lapses continued to hold them back.
There was no easy path for the Magic but the tall Tuki’s smooth entry into the game and the visitor’s greater composure under pressure helped them hold the slimmest advantage as they went to the last break 39-37 ahead.
The Tactix ran themselves ragged in a pulsating run home. A huge defensive effort from the home team pushed the Magic to the brink. Roared on by a by the big crowd and the improved accuracy from Jodi Brown and Anna Thompson, the Tactix tied the game up with six minutes to go.
Huge efforts went in from both teams as each pass turned into a mighty contest during the goal-for-goal final few minutes before Williams made it a second consecutive week of heartbreak for the Tactix.
Magic aghast at missed huddle reaction
Courtesy NZPA
Midcourt maestro Laura Langman is aghast at the reaction across the Tasman after her Waikato-Bay of Plenty Magic team missed the traditional post-match huddle following their loss to the Queensland Firebirds in Sunday's trans-Tasman netball league clash.
The Magic had been tipped to win the match in Brisbane, but were ambushed by a well-prepared Firebirds team, who dominated the Magic with a slick 53-42 win.
When many of the Magic missed the post-match huddle, where both teams stand arm-in-arm in one big circle, television commentators decried the New Zealand team as poor sports.
And former Australian captain Liz Ellis has joined in the outcry, labelling the incident as a disgrace.
"The way they carried on after the game is an indication that they were really disappointed. I think they were bad sports," Ellis said.
Langman said today that the Magic had no intention of purposely snubbing the post-match huddle.
"I think that any team after a loss always come back together and that's pretty much what we did.
"We did our cheers and by that stage the crowd was commending the Firebirds on their performance, as they should have. I think in the chaos and the noise, only some of us got the message to come back in for the huddle," Langman said.
"It was just a miscommunication and by no means did we ever intend to offend anyone or boycott the huddle."
Like all New Zealand teams in the ANZ Championship, the Magic are no strangers to losing across the ditch. In all of last year's inaugural season, and the four rounds to date this season, no New Zealand franchise has managed a win on Australian soil.
Langman, with 41 caps for the Silver Ferns, acknowledged that the loss was disappointing, but said the Magic had no excuses at all.
"Full credit to the Firebirds, they had a really great game and played extremely well."
She said the Magic were a close team, and appreciated a good match, whether they won or lost.
"In retrospect, we had no idea so many people would be offended, and it was definitely not intentional. We'd like to apologise to the Firebirds, and the public, for any offence we've caused," she said.
"It's something that happened, we can't take it back, although I'm sure all our team would love it if we could."
Magic look for redemption
Press Release April 29, 2009
The nature of the Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic’s response to last week’s upset loss could well determine their future course in the ANZ Championship netball competition.
More than happy with the team’s progress over the first three rounds, Colourplus Magic coach Noeline Taurua was left unimpressed by the 11-goal capitulation to the Queensland Firebirds in round four.
``It was like two steps forward and then five steps backwards for us after that game,’’ she said.
The two bookends – Irene van Dyk and Casey Williams – at either end of the Magic court were the only rays of sunshine from the classy line-up as those in between failed to live up to their billing.
``In the attack line our timing wasn’t good and from there the team disintegrated into performing as individuals where players either tried to fix the problem on their own or just shut down,’’ Taurua said.
With all New Zealand teams failing to come to grips with playing in Australia, Taurua was adamant her team were the creators of their own demise.
``Being the first to win in Australia it’s not something we put a lot of focus on,’’ she said.
``For us, it was just another game and as such each game has different variables that come with it that you have to weigh up. Focusing solely on being the first New Zealand team to win in Australia becomes a distraction and is not part of our thinking.’’
Different umpiring interpretations of the three-foot marking rule and one-on-one defence have caused the most consternation on either side of the Tasman.
``These are things that are not new to us,’’ Taurua said.
``We know what to expect when we travel over there and prepare accordingly. We as a team have to get over it and just get on and play the game.
``There is nothing wrong with us physically…..we are not adjusting well enough mentally and it’s something we need to find in a hurry.
``The umpires were fine and they were consistent which is all you can ask for so there’s definitely no blame there.’’
The Magic will look to rise from the Firebirds ashes with a fresh approach and probably a tweaking of personnel against the Canterbury Tactix in Christchurch on Saturday.
``It wasn’t pretty last week and we know that as individuals and as a team we can do better,’’ Tuarua said.
``We’ve just got to get on with it and do our normal weekly processes without carrying too much of the baggage from the Firebirds game with us.
``This is a really hard competition and we have learnt you have to produce the goods week after week, irrelevant of who you are playing. It’s the type of competition where any team can beat the other on a given day.
``Bringing our performance to the court each week, being hungry and showing urgency are the important issues.’’
The Magic can be assured the Tactix will give them a good run for their money. Putting on their best performance of the season, the southerners gave the star-studded Adelaide Thunderbirds a fright before going down in extra time in the latest round.
``They play that solid Cantabrian style – aggressive and tenacious on defence while minimising their error rate on attack,’’ Taurua said.
``They are masters at doing the simple things well over and over which makes their whole package quite threatening to the type of game we like to play. So, we will have to get it right.’’
Jane Hunt
Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic publicity
Ph: 021-107-0287
Firebirds stun Magic
Shooting sensation Romelda Aiken overcame a nervous start to steer the Queensland Firebirds to a stunning 53-42 upset ANZ Championship win over the Colourplus Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic in Brisbane on Sunday.
Aiken was well supported by an industrious team effort in which committed defensive pressure and efficiency on attack won the day.
While the Firebirds shooting statistics were not the most accurate, Aiken backed up the standout play of defenders Laura Geitz, Demelza McCloud and Clare McMeniman to keep the scoreboard ticking over.
For their part, the defenders were instrumental in closing down the Magic’s much-vaunted attacking line as the home team stayed focused throughout in creating the weekend’s major boil-over.
The result has left the Melbourne Vixens as the only unbeaten team in the competition with two games left in round four.
In terrific lead-up form, the Magic had a fight on their hands from the outset as the Firebirds challenged them all the way through court with intense defensive pressure to cause a flurry of turnovers.
The respective in-circle defenders were prominent from the first whistle, firstly it was the Magic’s Casey Williams and Leana de Bruin disrupting a shaky Aiken in the Firebirds circle.
The towering Jamaican import was put off her stride with a succession of misses before she regained her composure as the quarter wore on.
It was a similar situation at the other end of the court where Geitz and McCloud held up Magic shooters Irene van Dyk and Maria Tutaia with great efficiency.
Despite fewer successes at goal, it was the Firebirds who gained the early impetus as they hustled the Magic’s attackers into error. Aiken came good at the right time to give the home team a slight 12-10 first quarter advantage.
The Firebirds carried on in the same vein on the resumption, greater intensity through court restricting the Magic from their normal free-flowing style.
On the back of continued turnovers from the Magic and Aiken’s improving form, the Firebirds opened up a five-goal buffer before the visitors edged their way back with some fine play from Williams and the ever-reliable van Dyk under the hoop.
However, excelling all over the court on the back of their contesting ability and intensity the Firebirds went into halftime handily placed at 26-22.
With their confidence sky-high, the Firebirds continued their rampant play through the third quarter. Promising defender Geitz put the brakes on the Magic’s scoring options with a clutch of intercepts as she kept danger-woman van Dyk under wraps.
At the other end of the court, the switching of Magic defenders Williams and de Bruin had little effect on the exploits of Aiken.
Growing in confidence, the willowy shooter’s positioning and the quality of ball from Lauren Nourse and Tamsin Greenway resulted in an ever-increasing lead for the home team.
The Magic continued to suffer from a high turnover rate as their attackers succumbed to the pressure with the Firebirds well in control in leading 40-32 at threquarter time.
Despite numerous changes for the final quarter, it counted little for the Magic who could not make any impression on the outcome as they continued to be outplayed and were consigned to their first loss.
Langman sparks Magic attack
Press Release April 22, 2009
Earmarked for netball greatness, Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic midcourter Laura Langman looks in a hurry to get there after reigniting her ANZ Championship credentials.
Heroics at both ends of the court from Irene van Dyk and Casey Williams in the opening rounds have largely pushed the livewire Langman into the background. But chasing new boundaries, Langman, 23, has become instrumental in setting the Colourplus Magic on a new course this year.
Bursting into the elite level as a multi-talented teenager, the flush of youth waned a little for Langman last season as she came to grips with positional changes and the trappings that come with being an old hand despite tender years.
There has been a marked improvement in the Magic’s attacking play this year highlighted by patience and better option-taking with Langman the driving force.
``I’m progressing in my attacking game,’’ she said.
``I wouldn’t mind being a little bit tighter on defence and help contribute more to our defensive game but I’m happy with where I’m at.
``We’ve placed huge emphasis this year on all players really knowing their roles and that has contributed to us being more cool, calm and collected on attack and really dogged on defence. Looking at the quality of the other teams, no team gets away with just having a few on defence and a few on attack, it’s all about seven on seven.’’
For coach Noeline Taurua the attack is a work in progress but she is thrilled with Langman’s results to date.
``Laura’s natural instincts are to do everything at 150 miles an hour – she trains that way, her brain thinks that way, she’s doing study, she’s doing a bit of work…she’s got a lot going on,’’ Taurua said.
``Everything is always in forward momentum but at certain times she needs to pull back and just do the easy things.
``Those things usually come when you are getting a bit more mature, round about 25-26 years of age. So what we are trying to do is fast-track her and get her to pull back at certain times. The results so far have been really encouraging. We have already seen a huge improvement in her attacking game and a reduction in her error rate.
``We just have to keep building with it and once she gets a real feel for it, the whole process will become automatic…. it is just a matter of time.’’
Despite a clean sheet so far this season and backing up from a stunning 18-goal win over defending champions the NSW Swifts, Taurua has her feet firmly on the ground ahead of Sunday’s clash with the Queensland Firebirds in Brisbane.
It is the Magic’s first trip across the Tasman this season which brings new challenges, such as Australian umpires and the travel factor into the equation.
As yet the Firebirds have not hit the high standards they achieved last year but do have potency through the scoring exploits of 1.96m Jamaican shooting machine Romelda Aiken.
Umpiring interpretations always appear to be a bone of contention in trans-Tasman clashes but Taurua doesn’t expect any problems.
``It is an issue if you let it be an issue but if we are mentally prepared for what to expect then it shouldn’t be an issue,’’ she said.
``We will probably have to pull back a bit on our normal type of game and maybe grind it out initially. And then hopefully we will be able to open it up in the latter stages.’’
Jane Hunt
Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic publicity
Ph: 021-107-0287
Magic clip Swifts wings
The Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic erased some demons with a crushing 63-45 win over the NSW Swifts in third round ANZ Championship netball action in Hamilton on Monday night.
In the showdown of the round between last year’s grand finalists, the Colourplus Magic completely outplayed the reigning champions after being on the losing end three times last season.
In recording the highest score of the competition so far, the Magic also consigned the Swifts to their second consecutive loss, leaving the Magic and the Melbourne Vixens the only unbeaten teams after three rounds.
A perfect start laid the platform for the rampant Magic, who finally showed the quality of their line-up for a full match.
In a great team effort, the ever-maturing Laura Langman, ageless shooter Irene van Dyk, who scored her second perfect match in a row (45 from 45) and the incomparable Casey Williams were individual standouts.
The Magic resisted the temptation to play lanky defender Williams at goal defence, where she played both opening rounds, instead shifting her back to goalkeeper in a bid to contain the dangerous Catherine Cox.
It made little difference as Williams excelled from the outset as she plucked a string of intercepts out of the air in front of Cox’s nose and continued to torment the opposing shooters with her aerial skills.
Paired with Williams, gritty defender Jodi Tod proved the perfect foil with a sterling match to keep Australian shooter Susan Pratley under wraps.
There was little to fault in an inspiring first quarter from the Magic. Taking a leaf out of the Australian style of defending, the Magic’s full-court intensity, particularly through the midcourt, paid dividends as the Swifts struggled to crack it.
Van Dyk and Maria Tutaia were on song from go to whoa in the shooting circle, reaping the rewards from the extra ball won by the defenders, their rapport and finishing giving the Magic a decisive edge.
The young Swifts defensive line struggled to contain the flow of the Magic, who were all class as they bolted into the first break 19-7 ahead.
There were further woes for the Swifts in the second quarter with injuries causing reshuffles at both ends of the court.
Falling heavily prompted a hasty trip to hospital for promising defender Rebecca Bulley, to stitch a head wound while two minutes from halftime, the inspirational Cox was forced from the court with an ankle injury.
Her place was taken by young shooter Erin Bell while Kimberley Smith donned the goal defence bib. However, the Swifts competed gamely, after their disastrous start, to only lose the quarter by a goal.
The Magic recovered from a mistake-ridden start with a solid finish to retain their comfortable advantage to lead 32-19 at halftime.
Often guilty of letting their consistency slip in the past, the Magic passed this test with flying colours in the second half tonight.
A relaxed home team enjoyed the third quarter, playing with confidence and continuing to dominate while the Swifts were laboured as they struggled to penetrate through court.
It took until two minutes from threequarter time before the Magic missed their first goal as the accuracy remained almost perfect. They missed just two shots all night.
With a commanding 48-32 lead at the break, Magic coach Noeline Taurua had the luxury of fresh legs in the final quarter, bringing on experienced defender Leana de Bruin, midcourter Nicola Pettit and promising young shooter Jess Tuki.
There was little respite for the Swifts as the Magic marched on with their most decisive outing of the season.
Magic ponder Williams’ bib
Press Release April 16, 2009
Where to play crack defender Casey Williams has been key to the Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic’s planning ahead of Monday’s ANZ Championship netball clash against the NSW Swifts.
The standout goalkeeper of the inaugural trans-Tasman competition, Williams’ has continued to shine after two rounds of the second season playing in the goal defence role.
The ease of Williams’ ability to transfer position has left Colourplus Magic coach Noeline Taurua with the dilemma of which bib the willowy defender will wear against the Swifts.
The reigning champions, spearheaded by super-consistent captain Catherine Cox, out-witted the Magic on the three occasions the teams met last season. Cox’s steadying influence was generally the major difference between the teams and overall she had the better of Williams.
Whether Taurua gives the athletic Williams another crack against her nemesis or leaves her to hunt more freely up court is at the heart of matters.
``The big question for us this week has been how we organise our defence line against the Swifts,’’ Taurua said.
``We have to get it right from the start and where I play Casey is my biggest decision.
``I’m semi-pleased with how our defence is going….we just have to get our strategy right in how we deal with the Swifts.
``The Steel (round two) was a good intro for us in that they offered a good attacking line (Adine Wilson, Donna Wilkins, Daneka Wipiiti) to test us and it set us up quite nicely going into the Swifts match. We gave them a bit too much room so how we work our defence is going to be a key.’’
After a three-goal loss in round three and with just a solitary goal separating the teams in last year’s major semifinal, the Magic were outplayed 65-56 by the Swifts in the final.
Stung by that performance and their overall inconsistency, the Magic have set out to make amends this year but Taurua said Monday’s outing was not about payback.
``We’re far from that,’’ she said.
``It is only round three and we’re nowhere near where we need to be…there’s a lot for us to work on yet. It’s another game early in the season and I think the big focus for both teams will be to come away with a win and the two points that go with it.’’
The Swifts cross the Tasman for the first time this season for the clash, their 10-game winning streak broken last week on the back of a one-goal loss in an epic encounter against the Adelaide Thunderbirds.
Facing their first trans-Tasman clash of the season, Taurua has a healthy respect for the Sydneysiders.
``They play for each other which makes them a good team, they have great links through court, do the simple things well and have good drive and structure,’’ she said.
``We’ve got to keep ourselves honest by playing high percentage netball. There needs to be urgency about our ability to create and not just expect things to happen.’’
Jane Hunt
Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic publicity
Ph: 021-107-0287
Van Dyk perfect in Magic win
On the back of a perfect return from Irene van Dyk, the Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic surged to a battling 54-47 win over the Southern Steel in ANZ Championship netball action in Tauranga on Saturday.
The veteran shooter was all poise in slotting 38 goals from 38 attempts to record her third perfect game against the Steel.
At the other end of the court, it was dynamic defender Casey Williams’ ability to snaffle intercepts, spoil ball and climb high for rebounds, who also ensured the Magic made it two wins from two outings.
In a match featuring 14 current or former Silver Ferns, the Magic were pushed all the way by the plucky southerners in a tough and bruising encounter.
Close going all the way, it was not until the final quarter that the Magic were finally able to breathe easy after a strong and determined showing from the Steel.
There were minimal changes to both teams from their winning combinations of the first round.
For the Magic, Williams reverted back to goalkeeper with Jodi Tod coming on at goal defence for her first start of the season. The Steel lost Megan Hutton through injury, her place at goalkeeper being taken by the inexperienced Te Huinga Reo Selby-Rickit.
On the back of fewer mistakes and intense defensive pressure, the Steel had the better of the opening exchanges.
Sheryl Scanlan, Katrina Grant and Selby-Rickit did a fine job of stifling the Magic’s attacking flow while on attack the Steel were crisp and accurate.
Strong finishing by Daneka Wipiiti shot the Steel out to a five-goal advantage before the Magic replied with a telling burst heading into the first break with the visitors 13-12 ahead.
Magic coach Noeline Taurua was quick to change the chemistry with Williams moving up court and Leana de Bruin coming off the bench into the custodian’s role.
The results were immediate with the Magic racing out to a five-goal advantage shortly after the resumption.
The lift in urgency left the Steel attackers in scramble mode as the Magic looked set to take charge.
Far from done, the gritty southerners fought doggedly to stay in the race as both teams were faced with an ever-demanding battle to string together their attacking phases.
The attackers at both ends were forced to dig deep as the defensive efforts of each team dictated fortunes.
The Magic kept their noses in front to lead 27-23 at halftime.
The smothering defensive efforts continued into the crucial third quarter with the Magic tightening the screws in the Steel’s attacking third. Grinding man-on-man marking forced the Steel to make numerous passes as they battled mightily to keep the Magic in check.
Time and again the Steel narrowed the deficit back to one but on the back of an outstanding effort from van Dyk, the Magic were consistently able to accelerate their way out of trouble as they led 40-37 at threequarter time.
The Steel were the first to falter, unable to sustain the intensity to the same levels during the final quarter as the Magic finally got the upper hand.
The Steel, who had more shots at goal through the match, experienced some wobbly patches under the hoop. This provided extra opportunities for the Magic with Williams outstanding on the rebound.
The combined efforts of Williams, de Bruin and Joline Henry thwarted any hints of a Steel comeback during a frantic final quarter while the Magic’s attacking line found some free-flowing movement as gaps appeared in the visitor’s wilting defensive screen.
Changes in the wind for Magic
Press Release April 8, 2009
The Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic look set to ignore the old adage of never changing a winning combination for their second round ANZ Championship netball match.
Handsome 13-goal winners in their campaign opener against the Northern Mystics and with talent to burn, Colourplus Magic coach Noeline Taurua is keen to keep all her playing options match-fit. That is likely to see a reshuffle for Saturday’s clash with old rivals Southern Steel.
``Depending on how our final training session goes, the plan is to change the line-up. If I’m using people as options I need to keep them warm,’’ Taurua said.
With that in mind, promising shooter Jess Tuki and midcourter Nic Pettit come into the frame while the mix of the defensive trio could also be tweaked.
With the depth of talent she has at her disposal, Taurua has the element of surprise up her sleeve in matching her line-ups to suit the occasion.
Custodian Casey Williams, the competition’s Most Valuable Player last year, was moved up a spot to goal defence for the Magic’s opener and she will continue to rotate between the two positions.
``Playing her there is just one option and I will persevere with it from time to time but I will also be looking at other options in the position,’’ Taurua said.
``She had a good, steady start at goal defence and once she finds her feet, it means she will be able to hunt higher (up the court).
``Her stability with the ball in hand was brilliant. She’s got great vision and a subtle and calm effect when she’s out there.
``She is still very young in her career and this is adding another string to her bow, so why keep her at the back (goalkeeper) when she can do the same damage up higher. And she is adding to her court nous.
``At the moment we’ve got three options (Williams, Leana de Bruin and Jodi Tod) at goalkeeper and I’m happy with all of them. It’s just now being smart as to who we play them up against.’’
Taurua was pleased with the Magic’s first half against the Mystics but was disappointed with the drop in intensity in the second. She felt the winning margin should have been between 20 and 30 goals.
The new attacking partnership of Laura Langman and Frances Solia was a telling influence on the game and will continue to grow.
``They compliment each other well and have got a nice thing going,’’ Taurua said. ``It’s been like that since day one….and just happened naturally.’’
Taurua has a healthy respect for the Steel, who have recruited strongly in the off-season, and are also coming off a first round win.
``They have been a bit of a bogey team for us in the past,’’ she said.
``It’s the Donna (Wilkins) factor that I’m wary about. I know she is a bit underdone at the moment but she is a match-winner and brings that passion to the game. Once she’s in there they lift a huge amount and she’s very good at geeing up those around her.
``We have to up the tempo and cannot repeat the third and fourth quarters we had against the Mystics or they will eat us up.’’
Jane Hunt
Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic publicity
Ph: 021-107-0287
Magic show no mercy
There was a strong indication of the Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic’s intent for the new season as they swept past the Northern Mystics 51-38 in their ANZ Championship netball opener tonight.
Well known for their flair, the Colourplus Magic are looking to eliminate sloppy and soft passages of play which have crept into their game in the past. Not doing their talent justice last year, despite making the inaugural final, there is a new resolve within the Magic for the 2009 edition.
There was the odd glitch tonight but for the most part the Magic delivered, executing patient build-ups with ruthless efficiency. When the occasion permitted the ball was moved at dazzling speed and despite the mounting scoreline, the positive outcome for the Magic was the ability to maintain their intensity.
By midway through the first quarter, the Magic had hit their straps, dispensing of the early nerves and repelling the Mystics stronger start to the match.
In what could be a sign of the future, Casey Williams was slotted in at goal defence for the Magic with Leana de Bruin taking the goalkeeper’s bib against her old team.
Aided by the strong defensive efforts of Laura Langman and Joline Henry in the midcourt, Williams and de Bruin tied up the Mystics shooters, snapping up anything loose as the Magic wound up the tempo.
Shooters Irene van Dyk and Maria Tutaia provided plenty of movement in the Magic circle as they tried to disrupt the menacing presence of the imposing Vilimaina Davu.
Lacking penetration through their midcourt stalled the Mystics progress and created numerous turnover opportunities with Tutaia and van Dyk eagerly adding the finishing touches to give the visitor’s a handy 16-8 lead going into the first break.
A long-range goal from the edge of the circle right on the halftime whistle, unfamiliar territory for the impressive van Dyk, summed up the Magic’s first half efforts.
Looking well-drilled and clinically efficient, the Magic, superior in all areas of the court, left the Mystics in chase mode and demoralised as they headed into halftime 33-20 ahead.
Frances Solia revelled in her new Magic colours after toiling away for most of her career with the struggling Central Pulse, adding non-stop movement in the attack line and proving the perfect foil for the equally-exuberant Langman.
Poor passing proved costly for the Mystics and was not helped by the inability to change tactics which were constantly thwarted by the Magic in the first half.
The Williams/deBruin combination continued to soar for the Magic as the match progressed, the tall duo stifling Mystics shooters Grace Rasmussen and replacement Jade Topia, whose confidence took a hit as they squandered numerous scoring opportunities.
Well in control, the Magic strolled into the threequarter time break 43-28 ahead after a low-scoring quarter.
Magic coach Noeline Taurua introduced changes for the final quarter as the Mystics belatedly enjoyed their best passage of the match.
Defenders Stephanie Bond and Debbie White were honest toilers in a disjointed and flat Mystics effort while the Magic excelled on mass in showing little mercy against their near-neighbours.
Magic keen to show their smarts
Press Release April 2, 2009
Playing a smarter brand of netball is the Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic’s intent for the second edition of the ANZ Championship, starting with their season-opener against the Mystics on Monday.
Valuable off-season acquisitions have added to Colourplus Magic’s already rich depth of talent which propelled them to the runners-up spot in the inaugural season of the trans-Tasman competition.
Spearheaded by a quintet of Silver Ferns – Irene van Dyk, Maria Tutaia, Laura Langman, Joline Henry and Casey Williams – the Magic have bolstered their ranks further with the addition of Silver Ferns squad member Leana de Bruin (from the Mystics), former Pulse captain Frances Solia and the promising Jess Tuki (Steel).
These gains and valuable lessons learned from an inconsistent 2008 have the Magic well primed to open their season on a positive note.
``We have definitely stepped up in our approach,’’ Magic coach Noeline Taurua said.
``Our planning has probably improved 120 percent from the same time last year. Our overall preparation has taken in what we learnt from last year and we know where we’re heading to so everything’s not so much of a mystery this time around.’’
All teams will start this year on a more even playing field, enjoying the same preparation time which was rushed last season as the completed details of the competition took more time than anticipated to finalise.
There’s no doubt about the firepower within the Magic squad with the new recruits helping shore up the attacking and shooting areas where they experienced a few glitches last year.
The added component is the mental side with the acknowledgement that the team’s preference for flair and flow will have to curbed at times.
``I love that style where you just turn around and let the ball go but that can be costly at times,’’ Taurua said.
``We have worked on training the mind more and two key aspects to come out of that which are at the forefront of our preparations are expect the unexpected and expect to grind.’’
The Mystics never recovered from a slow start in a disappointing first season to finally finish seventh.
This year they have a strong core in Temepara George, Vilimaina Davu and the special dispensation granted to allow towering shooter Cathrine Latu to join the line-up but have lost experienced defenders in Sheryl Scanlan (Steel) and de Bruin and Silver Ferns shooter Paula Griffin (Pulse).
The Mystics notable gains have been former Silver Fens midcourter Debbie White (Steel) and well-performed England shooter Pamela Cookey. However, it is understood Cookey will not be available until the second round.
Despite a solid pre-season, it is likely the Mystics will struggle to combat the Magic’s overall depth of talent across the court and the impact off the bench if needed.
``You always want to start the competition out on a good note to set the tone,’’ Taurua said.
``With each game we go in to we want to show improvement from the previous week. The big challenge is to produce consistency and be able to hold it.
``We probably got too caught up last year on how teams were rated and it was proven in a lot of the games that you can’t do that. Every team, especially when they’re at home, has to be respected and everyone wants to beat the Magic, so it’s just one team at a time.
``The urgency needs to be there in every game. If it comes down to the wire at the end of the season, you don’t want to be reliant on other results, you want to be in control of your own destiny so these first-up games are really important.’’
Jane Hunt
Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic publicity
Ph: 021-107-0287
Old hands at the helm for Magic
Press Release March 28, 2009
Experience prevailed over a host of options when Irene van Dyk and Joline Henry were named co-captains today of the Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic netball team for the ANZ Championship.
Laura Langman and Casey Williams, Silver Ferns co-captains for last year’s series against Australia, former Central Pulse and Samoa captain Frances Solia and Waikato captain Nicola Pettit were all in the mix, making the leadership role a tough choice for coach Noeline Taurua.
In the end, Taurua could not look past veteran shooter van Dyk, 36, coming into her seventh season with the Magic and hard-nosed defender Henry, 26, who has been with the franchise for nine years.
``It was a protracted process,’’ Taurua said of her final decision.
``The main reason is that Irene and Joline complement each other very well and their dealings with players, both on and off the court, has been outstanding.
``It is not negating the other leaders within our group but this was the end result and what is right for this group this year.’’
Widely regarded as the best shooter in the world, the durable van Dyk is also the most capped but remains understated about her overall influence on the game.
``It is such an honour to be one of the leaders of such a high calibre team,’’ she said.
Henry has cemented a regular place in the Silver Ferns over the last couple of years with her forceful and demanding defensive efforts.
``I’m very humbled in the fact that our management team think I’m a capable person for the position and really excited about the responsibility and the task ahead of us,’’ Henry said.
Runners-up in the inaugural year of the trans-Tasman competition, Taurua readily admits off-season acquisitions in Solia, Silver Ferns squad member Leana de Bruin and the highly regarded Jess Tuki have given the Magic a more formidable look for the 2009 edition.
``This year we are looking better than last year, not only physically but also mentally,’’ she said.
``Having more options off the bench, of players who can actually take the court and make an impact is a definite asset this year.’’
Being disciples of a free-flowing and flamboyant style has often counted against the Magic and they have struggled with knowing when to reign in and when to cut loose. It is an area Taurua has worked hard on in the pre-season as she moulds a typically talented Magic team into one capable of weathering all scenarios.
``There has been a huge improvement there and we definitely have more structure and bones in the attacking end,’’ she said.
``Defensively we are always pretty tight. So, overall we’ll be looking for dominance in games, grinding it out when we have to and going for the jugular, especially in the last five minutes.’’
The 16-week ANZ Championship gets underway next weekend when the Magic will meet the Northern Mystics first-up, in Auckland, on April 6.
Jane Hunt
Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic publicity
Ph: 021-107-0287
WAIKATO BAY OF PLENTY LAUNCH A NEW SPONSOR FROM TAURANGA
The Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic Franchise is delighted to be able to announce a new commercial partner for the 2009 ANZ Championship in Tauranga. With two home games at Queen Elizabeth Youth Centre The Sebel Trinity Wharf Tauranga saw this as a great opportunity to become involved with the Waikato Bay of Plenty Franchise and of course the Colourplus Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic Team. General Manager Gary Dickman was eager to see the Sebel Trintiy Wharf involved in the local community in an exciting way and thought who better than the Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic Team. The accommodation partnership will see the team stay at the Sebel Trinty Wharf for their two home games and will be the location for the Waikato Bay of Plenty Season Launch on March 27 when the captain of the side will be named for 2009.
The Waikato Bay of Plenty Netball Franchise has taken an innovative approach to finding commercial partners for match days in 2009 given the current economic climate involving partners beyond the traditional sponsor style relationships. The partnership was formalised at a lunch at the Sebel Trinity Wharf Tauranga.
Peter De Luca, the Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic Board Chair said, “This partnership is an extremely valuable and important one for the franchise and we have a confidence that like so many of our commercial relationships this will become a long term one. We believe that The Sebel Trinity Wharf’s approach to the looking at ways to become more involved in their community is to be admired and fits perfectly with how we at Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic view their role in support of netball. ”
The Sebel Trinity Wharf Tauranga – Official Match Day Sponsor for Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic versus the Melbourne Vixens – June 8 at Queen Elizabeth Youth Centre 7pm
The Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic Captain will be announced at Season Launch
The Season Launch at the Sebel Trinity Wharf on the last Friday of the month will see the captain of the Colourplus Waikato Bay of Plenty named for the 2009 season. There has been much debate about who the captain would be given the large number of capable leaders within the team.
The Season Launch is a chance for sponsors, the team and the Board to get the ANZ Championship campaign underway.
Final Game of Waipa Weekend Had Moments of Magic
The Colourplus Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic got out of the blocks quickly but then allowed the LG Northern Mystics to come back at them and close the gap. However, there was no doubt that the fire power on the home sides bench was going to help them at some stage. The 53 to 37 win was not a convincing display but the moments of brilliance show that there is a lot more to come from this Colourplus Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic Team.
Canterbury Tactix defeat Central Pulse 53 to 41
Lois Muir Netball Waikato 44 NZ Under 21's Group 56
The match was a good battle and showed just how much the NZ under 21's had improved over the weekend. Like the Central Pulse the Under 21's played three games on the middle day of Waipa Weekend but the NZ Under 21's are to be applauded for the way they have managed the 9 players over the 3 days. NZ under 21 defender Jess Moulds was named as defender of Waipa Weekend and won a pair of Asics shoes from Footmechanics and Te Pae Selby-Rickit and Sulu Tone-Fitzpatrick received Foot Mechanics vouchers for gait assessments.
Central Pulse 64 NZ Under 21's 47
LG Northern Mystics defeated Canterbury Tactix 57 to 46
Waikato Bay of Plenty Find Central Pulse Hard to Shake
This was an excellent match for a large and vocal crowd who were stunned at the end of the first quarter that saw Pulse ahead by 4 goals at 16 to 12. The second quarter saw the home side step up accuracy levels and so finished at half time one goal ahead of Pulse on 27 to 26. The Pulse defense of Cushla Lichtwark and Althea Byfield worked tirelessly all game managing to cope with two different shooting line ups. The third quarter had the Central Pulse still well in the game but ended 40 to 37 to the Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic. The final quarter was when the Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic stepped up again and so ran out to 55 to 43.
Tactix defeat NZ Under 21 70 to 47
CENTRAL PULSE START WELL
The Northern Mystics took a while to stamp their mark on the game against Central Pulse who played a strong first half to keep within 6 goals of their Auckland counterparts at 23 to 18. The third quarter proved to be a nightmare for the Wellington team allowing Mystics an 8 goal advantage. The final score was 49 to 34.
NZ Under 21's Learn From Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic
The halftime score at 38 to 9 was not an accurate reflection of the way the youngsters played against such a formidable foe. Jodi Beaumont worked hard in the defensive circle against Irene van Dyk.63 to 20 was the final score. Frances Solia is growing with every game for the Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic and certainly adds to the excitement of the attacking end.
LG Northern Mystics Perform Well Without Leaders
The final match of the evening at Waipa Weekend saw the Mystics work an array of combinations against the NZ Under 21 squad players who were not playing in the ANZ Championship Teams. An 8 goal lead at the first quarter saw the second quarter blow out even further for the NZ Under 21's against the Te Aroha Keenan coached Mystics so that the half time score 36 to 17. The final score of 62 to 42 was very much down to this. The LG Northern Mystics faded with the game and only defeated the NZ UNder 21's by one goal in the third quarter and the final quarter saw a draw.
Colourplus Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic Up Second
A reasonable crowd turned up in Te Awamutu to see the Colourplus Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic test themselves against the Canterbury Tactix. Halftime saw Tactix leading 26 to 21. Noeline Taurua was not afraid to play a different team each quarter to test her player and teams resolve however, this did not help the side to form any true pattern. Tactix kept their ship fairly steady and used the advantage they gained in the second quarter to hold onto the win at 40 to 38. Julie Dawson, Maree Grubb & Jodi Brown were very much the key to the Tactix.
Waipa Weekend Gets Underway For Central Pulse
The Central Pulse were first up for the weekend and played a match against the Netball Bay of Plenty side having their first real chance to test themselves prior to the Lois Muir Challenge beginning in Wellington next weekend. Both sides took a while to settle into the match and the 10 lead to the Pulse at quarter time was very much down to a shaky start by the Bay shooters. The young secondary school players who came on in the second quarter took a while to find their feet and Jamaican star Althea Byfield showed her hang time in the air was as good as any NBA star. Halftime saw Pulse ahead 24 to 11. Pulse won 57 to 25 and had the Bay scored the turnover ball won the result may have been 10 or so golas closer.
Magic look to step up the pace
Press Release March 17, 2009
Court strategy is the main focus for the Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic heading into their second warm-up netball tournament ahead of next month’s ANZ Championship.
Four of the New Zealand franchises – Colourplus Magic, Central Pulse, Canterbury Tactix and Northern Mystics – plus the New Zealand under-21 team will attend the annual Magic-hosted Waipa Weekend pre-season tournament to be held at the Te Awamutu Events Centre starting on Friday night.
The Magic produced a mixed bag of results at the pre-season opening tournament in Sydney three weeks ago, where seven of the ANZ Championship teams and the Australian Institute of Sport were on show. All but the last round of matches on the Sunday were played over 30 minutes with the Magic returning three wins, three losses and a draw.
``I am very happy with where we are at after Sydney,’’ Magic coach Noeline Taurua said.
``The results were secondary really. The main purpose was to get individuals out on court and start to put some of our court tactics into play without showing too much.
``We wanted to get the feel of the travel element, how we work as a team, what the chemistry’s like both on and off court and also have a look at other teams.’’
Consolidating on what went well in Sydney combined with a greater emphasis on court strategy should coincide with a step up in intent this weekend.
``Sydney was more about individuals and just getting them on court, this weekend I want to work on particular combinations,’’ Taurua said.
In a team boasting plenty of firepower with five Silver Ferns (Joline Henry, Laura Langman, Maria Tutaia, Irene van Dyk, Casey Williams), two Silver Ferns squad members (Jodi Tod, Leana de Bruin) and Samoan captain Frances Solia in the line-up, Taurua is spoilt for choice.
The coach has viable options in all areas of the court which as the long four-month season progresses should prove a blessing.
There will be plenty of tweaking from Taurua this weekend, mixing and matching her depth of talent as the fine-tuning continues to mould a team prepared to suit all occasions in a demanding season.
With hour-long games on the programme, the Waipa tournament will be a more accurate indicator of what shape the teams are in two weeks out from the start of the second ANZ Championship season.
``Being full length games this weekend will make a big difference and be a much more realistic situation to what lies ahead,’’ Taurua said.
``If we can back up on the same positive note from Sydney, I will be very happy.
``The good thing is that we are coming together well as a team and everyone is connecting but we have to be mindful we haven’t been put under huge amounts of pressure. Other teams don’t show their full hands so a lot of what you see has to be taken with a grain of salt and we need to just focus on ourselves.’’
The first round of the ANZ Championship will be held over the first weekend in April.
Draw:
Friday, March 20
6.30pm – Magic vs Tactix
7.45pm – New Zealand under-21s vs Mystics
Saturday, March 21
9am – Magic vs New Zealand under-21s
10.40am – Pulse vs Mystics
12.20pm – Tactix vs New Zealand under-21s
2pm – Magic vs Pulse
3.40pm – Mystics vs Tactix
5pm – Pulse vs New Zealand under-21s
Sunday, March 22
11.15am – Pulse vs Tactix
1pm – Magic vs Mystics
Media contact for Waipa tournament:
Sheryl Dawson
Ph: 021-226-9536
Jane Hunt
Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic publicity
Ph: 021-107-0287
Magic set to test their credentials in Sydney
Press Release March 2, 2009
The riches on offer couldn’t be further from mind as the Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic head into their first pre-season netball tournament ahead of the ANZ Championship.
New Zealand’s ColourPlus Magic and Southern Steel will join the five Australian franchises – NSW Swifts, Melbourne Vixens, Adelaide Thunderbirds, Queensland Firebirds and West Coast Fever -- in Sydney this weekend to contest the Sydney Olympic Park Netball Cup. The Australian Institute of Sport will also be included in the eight-team line-up.
Four weeks out from the start of the second season of the ANZ Championship, the Sydney tournament offers the Magic their first real opportunity to test combination
