MATCH PREVIEW (R3): STARS v TACTIX

TEAM NEWS:

The Northern Stars will have taken a close look at the video tape of last week’s loss to the SKYCITY Mystics where they were forced to play out much of the fourth quarter with just six players. Discipline will be key for both the Stars and Silvermoon Tactix after their penalty counts soared in the latest round. Captain Grace Kara said defensively the Stars were able to compete against the Mystics and she was pleased to see some of their work at training being implemented into their on-court performance. “We were able to change momentum and bring it back,” she said. “We were in it for most of the game but just critical moments we weren’t able to score down the attacking end.” The Tactix are at home for the first time this season and will be hoping captain Jess Maclennan recovers from an awkward fall during the loss to the Te Wānanga O Raukawa Pulse, where she left the game clutching her right knee. Maclennan, who is undergoing X-Rays this week, has had a horror run on injuries in recent seasons requiring surgery on an Achilles tendon and an ACL knee.

WHO TO WATCH:

Charlotte Elley (Tactix) – the New Zealand Under-21 mid-courter was a stand-out at wing defence for the Tactix in Round 2. She should get the nod to take on Stars captain and Silver Fern Grace Kara in what will be a tough task.

Kate Beveridge (Tactix) versus Ama Agbeze (Stars) – the two internationals could go head-to-head this week in a key area for the Tactix. Beveridge has proven a calming figure up front for the Tactix but will want to lift her accuracy rate. England captain Agbeze bring plenty of spark to the Stars defence line.

Olivia Coughlan (Stars) – it will be a return home for Coughlan who hails from Christchurch but has made her home at the Stars this season. She put in a solid performance against Silver Fern Bailey Mes last week and her height could be needed against the Tactix’ tall timber.