MATCH PREVIEW: (Round 12) STARS v MYSTICS

TEAM NEWS:

The inaugural Barfoot & Thompson Northern Challenge Trophy is on the line when these two teams meet on Super Sunday. It is one apiece this season with the Northern Stars victorious when they last played in Round 10. But the SKYCITY Mystics roller-coaster season looks to be pulling skywards again after an encouraging performance against the Waikato-BOP Magic last week. A win here will keep them in a hunt for the Finals Series in what is a big week for the side – playing three games in the space of seven days.

Young shooter Tera-Maria Amani must surely be a serious option for the remainder of the season after her performance against the Magic. The Beko Netball League player was a stand-out when coming off the bench with both her movement and accuracy keenly sought in a telling few rounds to come.

Coach Helene Wilson has hinted that Silver Fern Maria Folau could yet make another appearance in the blue dress this season so she has plenty of options in the shooting circle. The Stars however will take plenty of confidence into this game knowing they have the goods to beat their netballing neighbours.

WHO TO WATCH:

Christina Oscar (Stars) – will the Beko Netball League mid-courter get another opportunity in the ANZ Premiership after impressing in her two quarters last week? Combined well with centre Grace Kara and was fearless in her ball delivery to the shooters.

Holly Fowler (Stars) versus Elisapeta Toeava (Mystics) – without Fa’amu Ioane in the side, Fowler could get the nod to shut down explosive Mystics wing, Toeava. It will be a big ask for Fowler who has been focusing on centre and goal defence this season.

Anna Harrison (Mystics) – the Mystics captain is preparing to hang up her bib at the end of the season but is still playing some of her best netball. Was key to the Mystics turn in form against the Magic last Wednesday.