Match Preview (R2) Pulse v Tactix

TEAM NEWS:

There’s a lot to like about this Te Wānanga o Raukawa Pulse unit of 2018 and much of it is coming from its youngest members. They continue to give Netball fans a glimpse of who is going to take the sport forward in the coming years. Teenage shooters Aliyah Dunn and Tiana Metuarau impressed for a full 60 minutes in the win over the Ascot Park Hotel Southern Steel, while Whitney Souness has been a stand-out on attack in the league so far. Captain Katrina Grant admitted their youth factor played a role in their two wins in Round 1. “Youth with no fear is hard to play against,” she said. “Our experienced ones are learning from our youth and vice versa.” The Pulse has had the better of the Silvermoon Tactix in recent years but this is a different red-and-black unit – one growing in confidence with each outing having netted two wins from two matches. “We know this will be a tough one,” captain Jess Maclennan said. “We believe in each other, we’re confident in what we can do….it is nice to see it showing out on court.”

WHO TO WATCH:

Whitney Souness (Pulse) – speed, agility and playing with the ball on a string has been the hallmark of Souness’ play early this season. She impressed from start to finish against the Steel and showed she could dictate the pace of the game up front.

Sulu Fitzpatrick (Pulse) versus Ellie Bird (Tactix) – the Tactix is the only team Fitzpatrick is yet to play for during her career but the well-travelled defender looks to have found her home in Pulse colours. The experienced goal keeper will have her hands full against Bird who is forming a nice combination with Kate Beveridge.

Erikana Pedersen (Tactix) – the wing attack was one of the Tactix most consistent performers last season and has been hard to fault after two outings this year. She worked tirelessly in the win over the SKYCITY Mystics and combines well with new recruit Kimiora Poi.