Northern Mystics show depth is the difference as Pacific combinations keep Cup streak alive

The Northern Mystics are already setting the standard again and this win showed it is not just about their starters but the strength running right through the squad.

A 57-37 victory over the Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic in Tauranga on Saturday extended their grip on the Hobbiton Cup.

The win also delivered a clear message early in the season: the Auckland-based side are hard to break down, even when personnel changes are made.

Missing key midcourt players, the Mystics still controlled the game from the first quarter and never let go.

Their structure held firm, and their connections across the court stayed sharp no matter who was on.

The biggest difference came in the shooting circle. Maia Wilson, Filda Vui, and Sophia Lafaiali’I barely missed, finishing with just five shots missed between them. That accuracy meant the Magic were always chasing the game.

At the other end, Catherine Hall was again a standout with her reading of space and timing while Phoenix Karaka helped shut down attacking flow and forced the Magic into rushed decisions.

The Magic had moments especially early in quarters but they could not build any real pressure. Too many turnovers and missed chances kept them on the back foot for most of the match.

Aliyah Dunn of the Steel shoots over Remi Kamo of the Stars during their ANZ Premiership match at Pulman Arena, Auckland. Photo/Photosport/Joshua Devenie

By half-time, the Mystics were already in control and even as they rotated players and combinations, the level stayed high. They finished strongly to pull away and seal a fifth straight Hobbiton Cup win.

It was another performance that showed why they are so consistent at the top not just through talent, but through systems, trust, and the ability to adapt without losing control.

In other games, the Southern Steel bounced back strongly on home court with a 69-60 win over the Northern Stars in Invercargill on Saturday.

After an even opening quarter, the Steel took control with a dominant second spell built on tight defence and accurate finishing, led by shooter Aliyah Dunn, who was nearly perfect under the post.

The Stars fought back late but the Steel held their nerve to secure a valuable early-season win.

In Christchurch, the Mainland Tactix stayed unbeaten with a hard-fought 53-48 win over the Central Pulse.

In a physical, stop-start contest, the Tactix did the key things better under pressure with strong defensive work and steady shooting from Amorangi Malesala helping them build a decisive lead.

The Pulse pushed late and claimed a bonus point, but the champions had already done enough to close out another gritty victory.

For more on the AN Premiership, click here.