STARS’ RUN OF WOE

The Northern Stars’ losing run can’t possibly continue forever.

Their three defeats so far have all been close ones, which suggests they’re unlucky as much as they aren’t good enough. Wednesday’s loss to the Mainland Tactix was particularly painful, coming after they had been ahead or tied for all but the final 11 seconds.

Before that, they were locked in a tight one with the Northern Mystics before having a player ordered off, and back in round one, they were ahead by four with six minutes left against the Tactix, only to lose in extra time.

They play the also-winless Magic on Sunday in their first home game, which could be the break they need to get on the board.

INJURIES IRK

Jess Maclennan and the Tactix received news this week that nobody wanted to hear – the defender had suffered her third serious injury in four seasons.

First it was her achilles, then the anterior cruciate ligament in her left knee, and now the ACL in her right knee, ruling her out for the rest of the season.

With three wins in four outings, the Tactix have already had their best season in nine years, and they won’t be hampered too much – Temalisi Fakahokotau and Jane Watson remain a fierce defensive combo – while Maclennan herself remains upbeat.

‘‘Imagine that story – coming back from three major injuries,’’ she told Stuff this week. ‘‘There’s something about the resilience it would take for that that makes me think ‘OK, I’m going to do this’.’’

THE MARIA FOLAU SHAMBLES

The will she/won’t she mystery surrounding the Silver Ferns shooter continued this week, as she played no part in the Northern ❚ ❚ ❚