After some big losses in Round 2 the Mainland Tactix and Northern Mystics will be looking to get back onto the winners list. While the likes of the Northern Stars and Southern Steel will be hoping to build on their momentum and keep their winning streak alive.

Central Pulse v. Mainland Tactix

Sunday, March 10, 4:10pm
Fly Palmy Arena,

Pulse claimed a narrow win last round and will be hoping to bring that confidence into their game against the Tactix this week, who failed to fire last round. With stars in the defensive end for both sides, all eyes will turn to the goal circle to determine the outcome of the match.

The Pulse will be looking to star shooter Aaliyah Dunn and her partner in crime Ameliaranne Ekenasio who have been going from strength to strength so far this season. The shooting duo has already caused plenty of headaches credit to their scoring ability and effortless rotations through the circle. Other key players for the Pulse are defenders Katrina Rore, Sulu Fitzpatrick and Karin Burger.

Goal keeper Jane Watson will have her hands full with Dunn, but with help from goal defence Kate Lloyd and Sophia Fenwick they may be able to disrupt Pulses’ attacking flow. Dynamic centre Kimmiora Poi will play a huge role in delivering the ball to shooter Ellie Bird, who is accurate under the post but just needs more of the ball.

Southern Steel v. Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic

Monday, March 11, 7:40pm
ILT Stadium Southland Invercargill

After a dominant performance, last round the Southern Steel will come into the match up with their tails up. On the other hand, the Magic will be disappointed, narrowly falling to the Pulse in Round 2 making for a hotly contested match. Both sides are renowned for their hunt of the ball and defensive pressure.

Defensively the Magic are quite strong with Casey Kopua and Kelly Jury leading the way, but with star power across the court for the Southern Steel, Magic may struggle to combat both their offensive and defensive pressure. Expect an interesting battle between Steel shooter Leize Potgieter and experienced Ferns and Magic captain Kopua. Both players are well-known for their never say die attitude and are always up for a scrap.

Gut running centre come wing defence Sam Sinclair will also be crucial for the Magic if they are any hope to stop the attacking flow of the Steel. With the likes of Gina Crampton and Shannon Saunders the Steel pose a real threat, hitting the circle edge hard and with precision.

Northern Stars v. Northern Mystics

Wednesday, 13 March, 7:40pm
Pullman Arena

In a battle of the North, the Stars will be looking to maintain their hot streak, while the Mystics will be hoping to derail them. Coming off an impressive display at home the Northern Stars have a point to prove if they want to assert themselves as grand final contenders. For the Mystics, they will be wanting to put out a more consistent four quarter effort.

Maia Wilson dominated once again in the goal circle and with her hot form, could quite easily do it again up against the Mystics. It will be up to Mystics goal keeper Erena Mikaere and her defensive partner Phoenix Karaka to try and quell the influence of the scoring machine. In the midcourt Tayla Earle and Michaela Sokolich-Beatson will have solid competition going up against the likes of Temepara Bailey and wing attack Mila Reuelu-Buchanan who are deadly on the circle edge.

The Mystics will be hoping that shooters’ Bailey Mes and Jamie Hume lift their intensity and scoring load in hope to post a more competitive total. But they must face the defensive trio of Leana De Bruin, Kayla Cullen and Storm Purvis who have been working exceptionally well in defence for the Stars.