In a crucial match for their season, the Southern Steel fought hard to secure a thrilling one-goal victory over the Pulse, winning 58-57 and moving up the league.

Monday night's win in Wellington was important as the Southerners needed a victory to keep their ANZ Premiership netball playoff hopes alive, especially with only a few games left in the regular season.

The match was intense from the start. The Pulse were struggling with three consecutive losses coming into the game, but they came out strong, initially taking a lead thanks to good teamwork on attack.

But the Steel, determined to turn things around after a previous heavy loss to the Pulse this year, found their rhythm.

Georgia Heffernan, a standout player for the Steel, delivered her best performance yet. Her efforts, including a crucial two-point shot in the final moments, helped turn the tide in favour of her team from Invercargill.

Despite facing a challenging situation when Renee Savai’inaea was suspended for dangerous play, the Steel rose to the occasion.

They increased their pressure on the Pulse, forcing them into mistakes and creating exciting moments throughout the game.

The Pulse initially led 5-2, showcasing better connections in their scoring. They found success with star shooter Amelia Walmsley, who received a lot of passes, making it harder for the Steel to defend.

But, the Steel managed to regroup after a shaky start, and despite trailing 14-16 at the end of the first quarter, they began to find their footing.

Steel players from left: Kimiora Poi, Aliyah Dunn, Georgia Heffernan, and Renee Savai'inaea celebrate their 58-57 win over the Pulse in Wellington on Monday night. Photo/Marty Melville/Photosport

As the game progressed, the Steel took the lead for the first time and continued to challenge the Pulse.

They changed their defence, but the Pulse held a slim margin going into halftime at 34-30, with Walmsley being a key scorer despite some missed shots.

The Pulse maintained a six-point lead in the second half for a while, but the Steel’s determination grew stronger. They pushed back, creating pressure that forced the Pulse into mistakes.

As the game headed into the final quarter, the Pulse held a 50-41 advantage. The Steel knew they needed a strong comeback to secure the win. And they did!

Samon Nathan, of the Stars, on the attack against the Tactix in Christchurch on Sunday. The Tactix won 61-53. Photo/John Davidson/Photosport

Tactix return to the top

In other round seven results, the Tactix secured a 61-53 victory over the Stars in Christchurch on Sunday, reclaiming their position at the top of the table.

After losing to the Stars in round two, the Tactix dominated the first half, leading by 16 points at one stage.

Despite a strong second-half performance from the Stars, including a standout debut from Marie Hansen, the Tactix maintained their lead due to a strong first half.

Key players included Ellie Bird for the Tactix, who started strongly, while the Stars saw contributions from Charlie Bell and newcomers Crystal Maro and Mila Reuelu-Buchanan.

The Tactix led 36-19 at halftime and held off the Stars, ending the third quarter with a 49-33 advantage. They continued to hold on to their lead to secure the win.

Mystics win the Hobbiton Cup after defeating the Magic 63-51 in Hamilton on Saturday. Photo/DJ Mills/Photosport

Hobitton Cup stays with Mystics

The Northern Mystics secured the Hobbiton Cup with a 63-51 win over Magic in Hamilton on Saturday.

The match showcased improved ball control from both teams compared to their previous encounter.

The Mystics maintained a higher shot volume, leading to their victory despite Saviour Tui's impressive seven super shots for the Magic.

The game featured consistent offensive execution, with the Mystics' defence successfully limiting the Magic's shooting duo.

The first half saw the Magic come back from an 11-point deficit to trail by just three at halftime. But the Mystics managed to maintain a lead throughout the game, ultimately winning by 12 points.

With three rounds of games to go, the Steel will host the Magic on Saturday, the Tactix will travel to the capital to face the Pulse on Sunday, and the Auckland derby will see the Stars host the Mystics on Monday.