Grace Nweke of Northern Mystics shoots against the Southern Steel. Photo: Photosport
The Mystics subdued a determined challenge from the Steel to win 65-55 in Auckland and extend their lead atop the ANZ Premiership.
In a clash between the first and last placed sides, the Mystics pulled 10 goals clear in the first quarter and kept their winless opponents at arm's length for the remainder although there were some positive signs for the southerners.
Victory was the ideal celebration for well-traveled goal keep Sulu Fitzpatrick, who was playing her 150th league match.
She has racked up 74 games for the Mystics across three stints, along with along with16 for the Magic (2011-12), 13 for the Steel (2013), 15 for the Stars and 32 for the Pulse (2018-19).
At the other end of the court Silver Ferns goal shoot Grace Nweke landed 53 of her 58 shots for the winners, combining well with wing attack Elisapeta Toeava.
Centre Katie Te Ao was also impressive for the Mystics, having been called in to replace the unavailable Tayla Earle.
It was an improved outing for the Steel, who lost 64-48 to the Auckland based side when they met in Dunedin in round five.
The Steel's improved form took them to within one point of the Pulse in a defeat last week.
- RNZ