Mystics Men wrap up clean sweep over Stars Men

A storming all-court effort propelled the Mystics Men to a tight one-goal win in game three of the men’s series with a last gasp 47-46 victory over the Stars. 

The Te Taonga Manu Taki trophy is now in the Mystics cabinet after they played with flair, daring and accuracy to sweep the series and showcase men’s netball at the highest level.  

Showing no complacency from the opening whistle the Mystics hit the lead by two goals at the first quarter break.  

Mystics goal attack Elliot Clark found his range and swagger early with three successful two-point shots while pulling in slick feeds from captain Eriata Vercoe.  

Not to be outdone was Stars goal attack Stan Smith with three long range goals of his own in the opening quarter.  

The Stars excelled in a dominant second spell on both attack and defence with captain Dan Rich leading from the front in a stellar 13-4 effort by the home side.  

Stars defender Timmy Apisai gained plenty of ball by using his long reach to haul in the rebounds. 

The Stars held the 26-19 half-time advantage, however the classy Mystics came roaring back in the third to tie the match at 36-all with 15 minutes to play.  

Neither side would give an inch in the torrid final quarter battle with energy and passion on court from both sides. 

A key two point shot from Mystics shooter Thomson Matuku and impressive composure by Quintin Gerber under the post saw the well organised men-in-blue home.  

Stars goal shoot Marutawhao Delamere kept his side in the match right up until the final whistle. His speedy footwork, strong hold and accuracy deserved the win. But it wasn’t to come despite a monumental effort from the home side.  

The Mystics posted a narrow one-goal win in the series opener, followed by a resounding 66-41 win in the second, with the game three nailbiter wrapping an enthralling series. Substitutions were a big factor throughout the series with the bench players of both teams also achieving plenty of time on court.