Steel surge sends warning as Stars and Tactix grind out key ANZ Premiership wins

The Ascot Park Hotel Southern Steel have thrown down a serious marker, powering past the Northern Mystics with a dominant second-half performance to headline a big ANZ Premiership weekend of netball.

Playing away from home, the Steel turned a tight contest into a statement 57-46 win blowing the game open after halftime.

With the scores locked at the break, they lifted the tempo, controlled the court and never looked back.

Shooter Aliyah Dunn was flawless under the hoop, landing all 47 of her attempts while Kimiora Poi led the charge through the middle with control and energy.

At the back, Carys Stythe helped shut down the Mystics' attack as the visitors took full control.

It was a complete team effort and one that sends a clear message to the rest of the competition: the Steel are building.

Earlier in round three, the Stars showed grit to return to the winners’ circle with a hard-fought 59-55 win over Te Wānanga o Raukawa Pulse in Wellington.

In a tight contest, it was their defensive work that made the difference. Kate Burley led strongly in the circle, backed by Mila Reuelu-Buchanan and Samon Nathan as the Stars held firm under pressure.

They had to dig deep. Injuries continue to test their squad but the side stayed composed and made their move late in the third quarter before holding off a fast-finishing Pulse.

Stars players held firm under pressure against the Pulse, showing defensive grit to secure a crucial early-season victory. Photo/ANZ Premiership

A key shift in the shooting circle proved crucial with Martina Salmon stepping up with a calm and accurate display, missing just three of her 33 attempts.

The Pulse pushed hard, even earning a bonus point, but the Stars did enough to secure a valuable win and climb the ladder.

The defending champions VIP Frames & Trusses Tactix also had to work for their result, digging deep to stay unbeaten with a 53-46 win over the Magic in Hamilton.

It came at a cost. Captain Erikana Pedersen was forced from the court with what looked like a serious injury, which left a young midcourt group to step up under pressure.

The Magic, still chasing their first win, brought energy and fight and looked a real chance after closing the gap early. But the Tactix found another gear when it mattered.

Goal attack Amorangi Malesala proved the difference, knocking down five two-point shots and leading a strong final quarter push that shut the door on the hosts.

It was not their cleanest performance but it showed resilience and a sign of a side that knows how to win in tough moments.

Across the round, one theme stood out: teams finding ways to get the job done. The Steel did it with power and control. The Stars and Tactix did it with grit and composure.

Early in the season, these are the wins that shape what comes next.

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