Netball: Steel edge Tactix in thriller to secure home final

The Southern Steel have earned the right to host next weekend’s ANZ Premiership elimination final after grinding out a tense 56-54 victory over the Mainland Tactix in Invercargill.

In what felt like an early finals clash, neither side could break clear for long with the contest remaining in the balance until the closing minutes at ILT Stadium.

The Steel found another gear when it mattered the most, outscoring the Tactix 17-13 in the final quarter to seal a result that could prove crucial when the two teams meet again in next Sunday's knockout match.

Goal attack Georgia Heffernan said the result reflected the determination shown by the home side.

“That was such a grind, I’m so proud of how we… dug deep and got that win… so stoked to get that home elimination final for next week,” she said on TVNZ after the match.

Heffernan and shooting partner Aaliyah Dunn again led the way in attack. Heffernan finished with 90 per cent while also providing 19 feeds and a pickup. Dunn converted 37 of her 39 attempts under the post.

The Steel's midcourt also played a key role with wing attack Serina Daunakamakama delivering a standout performance of the season.

With captain Kimiora Poi unavailable, the younger Fijian playmaker stepped up in a high-pressure contest, constantly providing an attacking option and helping unlock the Tactix defence with her vision and movement.

Steel coach Wendy Frew was also encouraged by the contribution of several younger players after making changes during the match.

Serina Daunakamakama of the Southern Steel in action. Photo/John Davidson/Photosport

Ashleigh Poi started at centre while Australian replacement Jessie Laga’aia and Skylah Tainui-Takerei were given valuable minutes.

Frew was particularly impressed by Tainui-Takerei who was thrown into the contest late.

“She’s only been brought in a few weeks ago and comes in the last quarter… for a young player I thought she showed real maturity, she opened the game up… and shes a really big player to watch for the future,” Frew told TVNZ.

The Tactix will take confidence from their performance despite the loss.

Defender Laura Balmer said the close contest provided valuable preparation ahead of next week’s rematch.

“I think it was just a good hit out. Just playing under pressure, playing when it’s a close score… because we haven’t played them since round one,” Balmer told TVNZ.

The visitors matched the Steel throughout the game while goal shoot Charlie Bell delivered a flawless shooting display finishing at 100 per cent accuracy.

Mystics patiently wait

While the Steel and Tactix prepare for their elimination final showdown, the Northern Mystics are already through to the grand final.

The ladder leaders secured their place with a 53-42 victory over the Magic at Trusts Arena on Saturday night.

The Mystics finished the regular season on top and await the winner of next Sunday’s elimination final with a place in the championship match on the line.

For more information on the 2026 ANZ Premiership click here.