The Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic have opened their ANZ Premiership netball season with a 54-48 victory over the Southern Steel in Dunedin.
Steel and Magic Photo: PHOTOSPORT
It is the first time the Magic have beaten the Steel in the four years of the competition.
With the government restriction on crowds of no more than 500, Netball New Zealand decided to play the game without fans.
The Steel lost their homecourt advantage and were slow to get off the mark.
The Magic were in front by four after the first quarter, but slowly pegged their way back into the game and led briefly in the second half.
However a concerted team effort by the Magic in the final quarter saw them notch up their first victory over the Steel in ANZ Premiership history.
Magic goal keep Erena Mikaere, back in her home colours, was able to disrupt the Steel's new shooting combination of Jen O'Connell and Trinidad & Tobago import Kalifa McCollin.
Abigail Latu-Meafou led the charge on attack for the Magic, standing strong against the Steel defence and was able to feed goal shoot Kelsey McPhee.
The new midcourt combination of Whitney Souness and Ariana Cable-Dixon, who was player of the match, was also important in the Magic's flow through court.
Steel co-captain Te Huinga Reo Selby-Rickit said the team was disappointed the game had been closed to the public but safety was paramount.
"This is a really challenging time for everyone and we respect the decision which has been made. While we were excited to be launching our season in front of our loyal fans, this is best to keep everyone safe," Selby-Rickit said.
Netball NZ Chief Executive Jennie Wyllie said while it was disappointing for all fans, the decision was based on the message from Government.
"This decision is in the best interest of public health and well being, including that of coaches, administrators, fans and, our volunteers," Wyllie said.
In the other first round games over the weekend the Pulse beat the Tactix and the Mystics beat the Stars.