ANZ Premiership: 2020 Season team preview – Northern Mystics
WITH the ANZ Premiership season just around the corner we take a look at each teams chances heading into the year and a key player to keep an eye on. The first cab off the rank is the Northern Mystics.
Coach: Helene Wilson
Captain: Phoenix Karaka
2019 finish: 6th
It was a disappointing 2019 season for the Northern Mystics, who struggled to generate any real winning momentum throughout the year but seemed to kick into gear in the latter half of the season. They only racked up four wins for the year, dropping 11 to round out a relatively unsuccessful season.
2020 predictions/expectations:
They picked up some key players over the off-season to give them a real boost across the court particularly up the defensive end, with Sulu Fitzpatrick headlining the recruits. Her inclusion alongside an already stacked defensive line-up could pay dividends for the Mystics. Michaela Sokolich-Beatson oozes versatility able to swap between wing defence and circle defence while Phoenix Karaka has come into her own. Up the other end, Grace Nweke made a name for herself in the latter half of the season with the young goaler hoping to maintain that strong form under the post this season and steer the ship to success. Nweke was a key cog in the goal circle using her height, silky footwork and strong holds to cause havoc. Through the midcourt the Mystics will be hoping to develop the connections between Emma Iversen and Elisapeta Toeava. The two have proven that they have plenty of attacking flair with their impressive vision and quick ball movement to swing the ball around the top of the goal circle.
Key player/pick up: Sulu Fitzpatrick
With a premiership under her belt the talented defender will offer plenty of excitement, versatility and experience down back. Fitzpatrick is a class above with her aerial ability and dynamic footwork two key aspects of her game play. She backs herself in defence not afraid to go out flying for an intercept
Team list:
Tayla Earle
Sulu Fitzpatrick
Danielle Gray
Emma Iversen
Phoenix Karaka
Bailey Mes
Grace Nweke
Michaela Sokolich-Beatson
Elisapeta Toeava
Saviour Tui
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