Stars go out in last few seconds as Tactix strike

49 48 The Mainland Tactix have claimed their first win at home, defeating the Northern Stars in the highly anticipated Super Sunday rematch.

In the final game of round three, the Tactix claimed a 49-48 victory over the Stars at Christchurch’s Horncastle Arena last night.

When the teams last met in round one, the Tactix narrowly defeated the Stars 60-61 in overtime — the first time an ANZ Premiership netball match was decided in extra time.

Goal-to-goal play in the opening quarter of last night’s clash suggested yet another nail-biting game as both sides showed promise.

Tenacious Tactix defender Temalisi Fakahokotau was quick to snatch every rebound she could from Stars shooting duo Ellen Halpenny and Maia Wilson.

But Wilson’s accurate performance saw the Stars extend their narrow 14-12 first quarter lead to four points at halftime.

Meanwhile, Stars English import Ama Agbeze made her presence felt in the Tactix shooting circle as Kate Beveridge and Brooke Leaver fought for space.

As the Stars built on their lead, the Tactix made a few mid-quarter position changes, bringing tall shooter Ellie Bird on to the court.

Bird’s height vantage gave the Tactix an instant boost as the southern side clawed their way back.

The Tactix miraculously tied up the scoreboard in the final minutes — just in time to score the winning goal.

With only four days to rest, the Stars will tip off round four on Sunday when they face their northern rivals, the Mystics.