IN a new series, Draft Central casts an eye over the top performer from the round taking into account not only their individual stats, but their overall impact on the game. Round 11 of the ANZ Premiership saw a number of key players lead the way for their respective teams and put their best foot forward. The next player to receive the player of the week is Tiana Metuarau.

The Southern Steel goal attack had a game to remember and arguably her best game of the season. Without her partner in crime in George Fisher, Metuarau found her groove – not only out the front on the feed, but also upping the ante under the post. Sometimes criticised for not going to post enough, she showcased just how damaging she can be when she gets ball in hand to open up the court and slot them from here, there and everywhere. Metuarau managed an impressive 30 goals from 31 attempts, guiding her side to a dominant win over Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic and keeping them in touch with finals only around the corner.

It was an all-round silky performance from Metuarau who reigned supreme in the front end with her crafty court play and ability to dictate both the space and timing in attack. Her spatial awareness was on full display, often bringing the likes of Grace Namana into the game and allowing her to do damage at the post. Despite still being so young, Metuarau has this aura of confidence and wisdom that comes to the fore every time she steps out on court and this game was no different. Her ability to swing the ball from one pocket of the court to the other was impressive to watch, as was her turn of speed when on the drive into the circle. Metuarau has proven time and time again that she is capable to step up to the plate and has relished the extra court time this season since making the move from the Pulse to the Steel.

The growing combination between Shannon Saunders and Kate Heffernan through the midcourt was another focal point of the game as the trio created a wealth of space in attack. Any time the play needed to be reset inside the circle, Metuarau had the option to spin round and find the two midcourters sitting on circle edge waiting to lend a helping hand. The speed in which the trio also used was second to none as they transitioned down the court with great ease and used the angles to keep the defenders at bay.

Metuarau allowed her netball smarts to do all the talking as she received just about every second pass and was the real maestro in attack. her composure and confidence to just work the ball around circle edge was one of the most impressive parts of her game. She was not willing to throw the ball away but rather waited until an opening arose and then deliver a pinpoint pass. Up against some strong opposition in the likes of Erena Mikaere, Temalisi Fakahokotau and Georgia Tong the goal attack used her body and speed to have an influence under the post. She was completely unfazed by the defensive pressure she was receiving and just went about her business to grind out the game and negate their influence.