Major blow for Pulse as Gordon sidelined
A significant ankle injury to classy Silver Ferns midcourter Maddy Gordon has dented the Central Pulse's hopes of winning the ANZ Premiership crown.
The Pulse have been dealt a major blow with confirmation that Gordon will be unavailable for up to 12 weeks.
Gordon, the winner of last season's ANZ Premiership player of the year award, was hurt during the Pulse's game against the Southern Steel on April 28, with scans confirming a significant ligament sprain.
Although the Pulse are unbeaten after four rounds, there’s no sugar-coating the loss of the experienced and talented Gordon.
“Maddy has been in superb form this season and is a key team member on and off court,’’ Pulse coach Anna Andrews-Tasola said in a statement.
“We are all extremely disappointed for Maddy and remain hopeful we will see her on court again this season.’’
Pulse management are seeking a replacement for Gordon, with an announcement expected later this week.
The Pulse said they would continue to re-evaluate Gordon’s progress before confirming any long-term injury replacement.
Former Pulse stalwart Claire Kersten came out of retirement to play for the team in their latest outing, against the Northern Mystics on Sunday. She played 53 minutes at centre.
The Pulse beat the Mystics 52-47 in Auckland after an epic comeback.
Having trailed the Mystics by 11 goals at halftime, the Pulse went on the charge to stun their opponents in front of their home crowd.
The Wellington-based Pulse, who have also been without shooter Tiana Metuarau, who has a foot injury, are scheduled to host the Mainland Tactix in Palmerston North this weekend.