Magic spell works against Mystics
Northern Mystics’ surprise defeat by Magic
It may be expect the unexpected for the new ANZ Premiership season with the tournament beginning with reigning champions the Northern Mystics going down to the bottom placed side from 2021.
The Waikato-Bay of Plenty Magic hadn’t won a game since the first round of last year’s competition, and the new-look side that took the court looked eager to put the woes of last season firmly behind them.
It was a dream start to the season for new head coach Mary-Jane Araroa who, despite not having new recruits Ameliaranne Ekenario or Katrina Rore at her disposal, put together some effective combinations to have her side carrying a eight-goal lead after the first quarter.
The Mystics too had notable absences in the form of stand-out shooter Grace Nweke, and defenders Phoenix Karaka and Fa’amu Ioane all out due to Covid-19 protocols.
Despite Nweke’s absence in the goal circle, goal attack Monica Faulkner managed to net 100 per cent of her shots on target in her first game in the blue dress after making the move across the bridge from the Northern Stars during the off-season. But they were matched down the other end of the court, with Magic shooter Bailey Mes only missing one of her 11 shots on goal in the first quarter.
The injection of midcourter Peta Toeava was crucial for the Mystics who won the second quarter by five goals, but without the usual tall target of Nweke in the circle, the Auckland side couldn’t make those crucial connections to cement a win even after a late comeback put them within one goal of the Magic in the final quarter.
It is the confidence boost that the Magic need after a disappointing season in 2021, and with the eventual return of Ekenasio, and the possible injection of Rore into the starting seven, they look to be a formidable opponent this year.
Despite what was not an ideal start to the season for the Mystics, the loss could give them the boost they need to come out firing in search of backto-back championship titles. With many key players yet to return to each squad, it is certain to be an exciting match up next time these two teams meet again in round eight.