Match Preview (R12): Pulse v Stars
TEAM NEWS:
The Northern Stars have the opportunity to play the spoiler and vice-captain Courtney Tairi says it is something they will be working hard to do when they come up against Te Wananga o Raukawa Pulse.
“We’ve got nothing to lose and we know we can cause some upsets,” Tairi said.“We’ll be looking to do that but honestly we just want to play well as a team.”
The Stars surprised a couple of teams through the middle stages of the season but the Pulse have come out victors both times they’ve met the Auckland-based side.
And the Pulse is coming into form at the right time of the season with a clinical performance against the Silvermoon Tactix.
The Pulse defensive unit has been formidable while Cathrine Tuivaiti shot the perfect game against the Tactix and looks to be relishing her senior role in the front line.
Their mix of experienced heads and exciting young players in Tiana Metuarau and Whitney Souness has delivered a product which sees them teetering on the brink of the Finals Series – victory over the Stars will put them in a position few would have predicted at the start of the season.
WHO TO WATCH:
Sulu Fitzpatrick (Stars) – the goal keeper has taken on a leadership role in the defensive circle with the absence of injured captain Leana de Bruin and looked hungry for ball in the game against the SKYCITY Mystics.
Malia Vaka (Stars) versus Katrina Grant (Pulse) – Pulse defenders will keep the heat on Stars sharp-shooter Maia Wilson so it will be up to Vaka to step up in the role at goal attack.A big ask against in-form Pulse captain Katrina Grant.
Cathrine Tuivaiti (Pulse) – an experienced head in the front line, Tuivaiti is a key cog in how smoothly the Pulse attack works and takes the pressure off those around her when needed.She has developed a strong combination with Metuarau.
HOW TO WATCH:
The second match in a Wednesday Night Netball doubleheader, live on SKY Sport 3 from 8pm. International fans (outside NZ) can tune in via the ANZ Premiership Facebook page.