Unbeaten Tactix face winless Magic as ANZ Premiership heats up

Just two rounds in and the ANZ Premiership is already taking shape.

This weekend’s round three brings a clear early storyline: the only unbeaten side in the competition is up against the only team yet to win while the rest of the league fights to stay in touch.

All eyes will be on Hamilton on Saturday night where the high-flying Tactix take on a Magic side under pressure to turn their season around.

The Tactix have started strong and sit top of the ladder after two rounds. They have also had the better of this match-up in recent years, winning 13 of the past 15 meetings. Confidence is high and the defending champions arrive as clear favourites.

As for the Magic, they are still searching for their first win after a tough start. This includes posting the lowest score of the last round.

Back at home, they will be desperate to respond, and quickly, before the gap widens.

There is added significance too with Oceane Maihi and Ali Wilshier both reaching 50-match milestones while Erena Mikaere is set to bring up her 100th ANZ Premiership appearance.

Earlier on Saturday, attention turns to Wellington where the Pulse and Stars meet in what shapes as a tight contest between two evenly matched sides.

Maia Wilson brings up her 150th National League match this weekend as the Mystics return home to face the Steel in Auckland. Photo/

Both teams have one win and one loss, making this a key early test. The Pulse have history on their side. They've won most of their past meetings and hold a strong record at home.

But the Stars bring firepower. They currently boast the strongest attack in the league, even if their defence has struggled to keep pace. That balance could prove decisive in a match that may come down to fine margins.

Then on Sunday, Auckland hosts a blockbuster clash between the Mystics and Steel.

The Mystics return home for the first time this season full of confidence after delivering the biggest win of round two.

The Steel, however, are coming off a strong performance of their own, posting the highest score last weekend.

History suggests little separates them. The two sides are level on overall wins across competitions and recent clashes have been tight with three of the last four decided by four goals or fewer.

There is also a major personal milestone on the line. Mystics shooter Maia Wilson is set to play her 150th National League match, a major moment for one of the competition’s most consistent performers.

With momentum, milestones, and early ladder pressure all in play, round three is shaping up as a defining weekend.

For some teams, it is a chance to build. For others, it is already about staying alive.

For more information on the ANZ Premiership, click here.