The Go Media Mystics have cemented their reputation as the queens of extra time after edging the VIP Frames & Trusses Tactix 53-51 in a dramatic ANZ Premiership showdown in Christchurch.
In a gripping top-of-the-table clash, the Mystics overturned a five-goal deficit in the final quarter before holding their nerve in extra time to secure a crucial victory and move closer to claiming the Minor Premiership and hosting rights for the Grand Final.
The Tactix looked in control for much of the contest, particularly after establishing their biggest lead of the game at 40-35 heading into the final quarter. Backed by a crowd of 5,000 supporters, the home side appeared on track to extend their impressive home winning streak.
The match was fiercely contested from the opening whistle, with both teams trading leads in an intense battle. Midcourt stars Peta Toeava for the Mystics and Holly Mather for the Tactix played key roles in driving their respective attacks, while defenders on both sides tightened the pressure and forced crucial turnovers.
The opening quarter ended deadlocked at 12-all before the Mystics edged ahead for much of the second spell through the slick combination of Toeava, Tayla Earle, Maia Wilson and Filda Vui.
However, the Tactix responded through a strong defensive effort led by Fa’amu Muliaga, Laura Balmer and Ash Barnett, who disrupted the Mystics’ attacking flow and helped their side take a narrow 26-25 lead into halftime.
The home side then produced their strongest quarter of the match. Goal shoot Charlie Bell proved a dominant target under the hoop, while the Tactix defence continued to pressure the visitors into mistakes. Their efforts helped establish a valuable five-goal cushion heading into the final 15 minutes.
But the Mystics mounted a powerful comeback when it mattered most.
With their season on the line, the visitors lifted their defensive intensity and gradually chipped away at the deficit. Their persistence paid off when they levelled the scores at 48-all at the end of regulation time, sending the match into extra time.
In the deciding period, the Mystics found another level, edging ahead and closing out a 5-3 extra-time advantage.
Goal attack Maia Wilson was outstanding throughout the contest, producing a near-flawless shooting display and proving decisive in the closing stages. Her accuracy under pressure helped guide the Mystics to one of their most important wins of the season.
While the Tactix suffered the disappointment of seeing their 10-match home winning streak come to an end, the losing bonus point keeps them firmly in contention for the Finals Series.
For the Mystics, the victory continues a remarkable run of form and strengthens their position at the top of the standings as the race towards the ANZ Premiership playoffs intensifies.
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