Avis Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic have finally broken through for their first win of the season, stunning Stars Netball 51-50 in a one-goal thriller at Claudelands Arena.
After seven tough rounds without a victory, the Magic delivered in dramatic fashion, with shooter Saviour Tui slotting the winning goal on the buzzer to send the home crowd into celebration.
The result was an emotional breakthrough for the Hamilton side, who showed composure under pressure after a fierce arm-wrestle from the opening whistle.
Magic midcourters Ariana Cable-Dixon and Georgie Edgecombe were standouts, with both producing crucial intercepts in a tense final quarter. Defenders Erena Mikaere and Oceane Maihi also helped apply pressure across the court as the Magic built early momentum.
The hosts led 16-10 at quarter time and held a 29-24 advantage at the main break, but the Stars fought back hard in the third quarter to level the game at 37-all heading into the final spell.
Rookie goal attack Sarah Guiney again impressed for the Magic, working hard on attack and combining strongly with Tui, while Cable-Dixon’s feeding into the circle caused problems for the Stars defence.
For the Stars, the narrow loss could prove costly. Their single bonus point may not be enough as they now rely on other results to keep their Finals Series hopes alive.
Stars coach Temepara Bailey leaned on experience, with Samon Nathan at centre and Leana de Bruin starting at goal keeper, while Amelia Walmsley remained a strong target in the shooting circle.
But in the final moments, it was Magic who held their nerve — and Tui who delivered the decisive shot to seal a memorable first win of the season.
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