Two veterans producing a game for the ages added to a compelling contest, with Stars Netball producing a stirring second half to inflict a decisive 56-39 win over Avis Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic in Auckland on Sunday.
With former Silver Ferns defensive legends Leana de Bruin for the Stars and Magic stalwart Casey Kopua taking their spots, the match held added interest and spice for Heritage Round. Neither disappointed, with both showing their competitive spirit remained undiminished while proving they've still got the goods.
Magic made a real contest of the first half. Kopua was in vintage form with her ability over the ball to block shots and pick off intercepts, while the rangy pair of Kopua and Erena Mikaere initially unsettled the Stars' talented young shooting duo of Amelia Walmsley, playing her 50th national league match, and Martina Salmon. Magic went to the main break trailing by just three, 24-21, very much in the fight.
The first quarter was tight and absorbing. Stars settled through patience at their attack end, with Walmsley and Salmon finding their groove to creep to a narrow 12-10 lead. On the resumption a goal-for-goal standoff prompted the Stars into a tactical timeout and the introduction of de Bruin.
The 48-year-old Stars assistant coach slotted in seamlessly and with immediate impact, her presence helping set fellow defender Kate Burley up with a run of intercepts as Stars grabbed the initiative. They jumped out to a five-goal lead, but Magic were far from done - inspired by Mikaere and Kopua picking up defensive opportunities, they came back strongly to narrow the gap and leave themselves well in the contest at the main break.
The third quarter proved the decisive shift. Kopua was forced off early with a lower leg injury, replaced by Oceane Maihi. Magic had opportunities early to make Stars pay but, in a story of the match, were unable to convert.
Stars stepped up a gear, retaining their composure on attack while de Bruin continued her menacing presence. Walmsley was a constant feature through her positioning and accuracy, keeping the scoreboard ticking over as Stars built a handy 41-31 lead at three-quarter time.
Stars closed out a decisive 56-39 result, with Walmsley finishing with an influential 46 from 49. Crystal Maro came on at goal attack for the final nine minutes, while injury replacement defender Kate Walsh - a former Adelaide Thunderbirds player - got on for the last five for her first game time.
For Magic, Grace Walsh (nee Namana), well-travelled across New Zealand and offshore, anchored the goal shoot spot after injury ruled Saviour Tui out of contention, and gave a composed account of herself. The returning Kopua set a genuine defensive tone for much of the match - her vintage display a reminder of what she still brings at this level - and with Mikaere alongside her, Magic gave Stars a real examination across the first half. Plenty for the group to build on.
