The Southern Steel opened their ANZ Premiership netball campaign with a commanding 54-36 victory over the Tactix in Invercargill.
George Fisher (pictured playing for England) starred for the Steel. Photo: Photosport Ltd 2020 www.photosport.nz
Pundits had Tactix as favourites for the match, but it was the hometown team which set the bar, dominating in all areas.
It is only within the last few weeks that Steel coach Reinga Bloxham has been able to work with her entire squad with English import George Fisher arriving in the country late last month.
But it was the Steel which looked to have the more polished combinations as they showed plenty of desire and passion for the win.
They made the early break to jump to a 6-3 lead before the Tactix, thanks to the defensive presence of Karin Burger, clawed their way back to level the scores 11-11 by the quarter break.
But from there the match belonged to the Steel with Fisher and fellow new recruit, Tiana Metuarau, showing just how potent their combination could be.
Metuarau, who moved south for more game time in the goal attack bib, played a strong feeding role while Fisher picked up the heavy shooting load, landing 46 of her 49 attempts at goal.
Their confidence was infectious as the Steel went from strength to strength, feeding off the Tactix' errors and a run of six goals giving them a comfortable 25-19 advantage going into the main break.
The Tactix conceded 26 turnovers, which they will need to address before their next game.