Overview
Six wins from eight games is respectable in a close competition. It leaves the side trailing the Central Pulse, which has emerged as the team to beat after two resounding wins over the Steel. That includes a 71-40 drubbing in Porirua, the biggest loss in Steel history. However, it remains unbeaten by the other four teams.
Winning the close ones
Good teams find a way to win and that is what this side has done. Of its six wins, only the opening match against the Northern Mystics was convincing. Aside from that it has had to show grit and composure to grind out tight wins and, at times, come from behind. It may not be as pretty as last year’s high scores, but the win counts the same regardless of how you get it.
Inconsistencies
The key difference between this year’s Steel team and last year’s is the consistency within games. Whereas last year the side was ruthless from start to finish, this team has been up and down. At times it has looked good, playing with confidence and finding its shooters. However, there have also been periods of disconnection where turnovers have crept in, which have brought this side back to the pack.
Young blood
This year’s Steel side had a decidedly younger look to it than in recent years, although the youth has stepped up. Jennifer O’Connell, Courtney Elliott and Abby Erwood have all proved good options, while Dani Gray was also impressing before a knee injury ended her season. From outside the squad Kendall McMinn, Kate Heffernan and Taneisha Fifita have all come in and performed well when called upon, too. Considering the losses of Jhaniele Fowler-Reid, Jane Watson and a still not 100% Wendy Frew, the side has been tracking all right.
One that got away
Aliyah Dunn has been one of the premiership’s stars. Unfortunately for the Steel, the 18-year-old Southlander has been wearing Pulse colours. In hindsight, the Steel should have made room for her among its shooters. But did anyone think she would progress quite as much as she has after her two appearances as a schoolgirl with the Steel last year?
How will it beat the Pulse?
That is the big question and one the Steel needs to find an answer to if it is to defend its its title. The Pulse’s intensity and physicality have rattled the Steel on both occasions this year. Its attack, meanwhile, has executed with ease. If the Steel can learn to handle the tenacity, there is no reason it could not compete — but it will have to figure out how to do that quickly.
Prediction: Finalist. The Steel’s ability to win close games is good news in a tight competition. It must be favoured to make it to the big dance, although it will have to do something special to get past the Pulse in Wellington.
How the teams are faring
Central Pulse
Record: 6-1
The team to beat so far. Tenacious, physical and clinical all over the court.
Prediction: Champion if it maintains its form. Waikato-BoP
Magic
Record: 4-3
Found form after the return of Lenize Potgieter and has now won four on the bounce.
Prediction: A genuine final contender although may fall just short.
Mainland Tactix
Record: 3-5
Already has more wins this season than each of the past eight. Strong defensively, attack not so accurate.
Prediction: Should avoid last place but has a tough run in and will not make the playoffs.
Northern Mystics
Record: 3-4
Beat the Pulse, although consistency is an issue. Won two of the three matches Maria Folau has played.
Prediction: May fall just short, although capable of an upset if it makes the playoffs.
Northern Stars
Record: 0-7
Has lost five games by three goals or fewer. Competes well and has the second-best attacking record in the competition.
Prediction: Last, although it is due a couple of wins.
