MATCH PREVIEW: (Round 13) PULSE v MYSTICS

TEAM NEWS:

With the minor premiership already in their pocket, there is little riding on the final round for Te Wānanga o Raukawa Pulse. Will coach Yvette McCausland-Durie opt to freshen some legs by testing new combinations or stick to the tried and true heading into the Grand Final?

There will be no doubting SKYCITY Mystics coach Helene Wilson will plump for her strongest line-up with a win in this match a must if they are to stay in the Finals Series contention. Captain Anna Harrison’s stellar career could come to a close tonight if the Mystics stumble but her charges looked to have risen to the challenge of playing for their leader.

The return of Silver Fern Maria Folau has also made an impact up front as her connections and accuracy in the shooting circle lift the team. Harrison has the confidence that the Mystics can beat the Pulse to reach the final three and was pleased with their win over the Waikato-BOP Magic in what was their third game in seven days.

“You’ve seen the beauty of the play that we can do so we just need to keep doing that, and executing out there and it should result in a win,” she said.

WHO TO WATCH:

Mila Reuelu-Buchanan (Pulse) – could be given the nod for a large chunk of court time for this game but faces a big week having already been part of Central’s outing in the Beko Netball League Grand Final. Has come on well in her appearances for the Pulse this year.

Maria Folau (Mystics) versus Katrina Grant (Pulse) – two of the most experienced players on court, this battle between the two Silver Ferns will be one to watch. Grant is second on the ladder for rebounds and intercepts, and third for deflections in what is one of her best seasons at goal defence.

Anna Harrison (Mystics) – the former Silver Fern is on the brink of retirement but still playing at a level which would see her slot into any international team. An inspirational leader for a team fighting for finals.