Commentator’s Call: Pulse continue to power on
The saying goes winners are grinners, and the Central Pulse are certainly doing a lot of grinning.
They’ve opened up a seven point lead on the ANZ Premiership ladder, are on a record unbeaten run of eight games, have the best defensive record in the competition, and the most accurate team when it comes to shooting.
Little wonder they’re smiling.
Some of the numbers from their 66-50 demolition of the Steel on Wednesday night are worthy of closer inspection.
The near 100% percent shooting of Aliyah Dunn is an obvious one, and 37/38 deserves credit.
But just as impressive was the improved discipline of the Pulse. They appeared to be heading for a hefty penalty count early in the game, but managed to rein themselves in, halving their number of contact and obstruction calls from the first 30 minutes, to the second.
Their Wednesday night clash in Porirua is an intriguing one. They beat the Mystics 62-39 in Round 1. The Pulse line up has changed little since then, but the Mystics may be just starting to find their groove. The clash between Grace Nweke and Bailey Mes, and Sulu Fitzpatrick and Katrina Rore is something to look forward to.
Not satisfied with unleashing one 17-year-old on the competition, Mystics coach Helene Wilson played another trump card last round, putting similar-aged GK Nanise Waqaira on the court against the Tactix. At that time the visitors were in control 33-24, but immediately the tables started to turn. It ended up a 10-goal victory to the Mystics.
Round 8 begins at Takanini on Sunday afternoon with both the Stars and the Steel looking for redemption, while in Hamilton the following night, the Magic will want to avenge that first round loss to the Tactix.
The Magic will have their eyes set on reeling in the Stars who are in third position on the ladder, but who have stalled somewhat. The Magic shooting circle was the best it’s been all season in Round 7, and their race for that all important third spot has added spice to the competition. A contest to look forward to is the battle between Ellie Bird and Kelly Jury.