The Tactix have consolidated third place in the national netball premiership with cliff-hanger 53-52 win over the Southern Steel in Dunedin on Sunday.
Tactix keeper Temalisi Fakahokotau and Steel shooter Jennifer O'Connell battle for possession. Photo: Photosport
The Tactix held a narrow 13-11 lead after 15 minutes and 27-26 at halftime before a strong third quarter from the southerners left the scores level at 40-40 at the three-quarter mark.
A strong circle defence from Temalisi Fakahokotau and Jane Watson ensured a good supply of turnover ball, which Ellie Bird (38 from 43) was clinical in converting with solid support from Kate Beveridge (9/12) and Brooke Leaver (6/9).
For the Steel, Jen O'Connell shouldered the bulk of the shooting duties in sinking 42 of her 52 attempts, goal attack Te Paea Selby-Rickit chipping in with 10 from 16.
The scoreline mirrored the result from two weeks ago when the two teams last met. But while the Steel took line honours in that match, this time the Tactix fought back from a three-goal deficit midway through the last quarter to secure the win.
The Steel sit second on the ladder with 14 points, one behind the pace-setting Central Pulse while the Tactix lie third on 12 points, two points ahead of the Northern Mystics who have two games in hand.
-RNZ