MATCH PREVIEW (R6): TACTIX v STEEL

TEAM NEWS:

Personal errors are stopping the Ascot Park Hotel Southern Steel from building momentum against teams, says captain Wendy Frew. Her charges had a number of opportunities to build a buffer on Super Sunday but let their opponent back into the match, something Frew wants to see addressed against the Silvermoon Tactix. “It’s still just silly things we’re doing wrong at crucial times that we let teams back into the game, it’s a bit disappointing,” she said. Injuries are also starting to mount for the Steel with Dani Gray (knee) ruled out for the remainder of the season while defender Courtney Elliott left the court early against the Stars with an ankle injury. Goal percentage continues to hurt most for the Tactix who put up 13 more attempts at goal than the Waikato-BOP Magic, but still lost by one. Converting the mountain of ball the defensive end is winning is key if the Tactix are to add to their win tally. “We’re coming out fighting each game but it’d be great to get consistency,” on-court captain Jane Watson said. There can be no questions over the Tactix’ ability to get themselves back in a game but the call is now to bring that intensity from the opening whistles.

WHO TO WATCH:

Te Huinga Reo Selby-Rickit (Steel) – the goal defence was a stand-out for the Steel on Super Sunday, particularly when the pressure went on. Six deflections, two intercepts and two rebounds came at vital times for her side in one of Selby-Rickit’s best outings this season.

Jennifer O’Connell (Steel) versus Temalisi Fakahokotau (Tactix) – a big match-up for the young Steel shooter against Fakahokotau and Jane Watson. O’Connell put up 44 attempts against the Stars and continues to grow in confidence.

Jane Watson (Tactix) – up against her former team-mates, the on-court captain for the Tactix faces a tough test against fellow international Te Paea Selby-Rickit. Continuing to find her feet in the new role of goal defence and is a key driver through court on attack for the Tactix.