15 Jul 2018

Efficient Pulse too good for Stars

7:39 pm on 15 July 2018

The Central Pulse have consolidated their position at the top of the national netball premiership with a decisive 65-50 win over the Northern Stars in Auckland on Sunday.

Central Pulse shooter Aliyah Dunn

Central Pulse shooter Aliyah Dunn Photo: Photosport

Apart from a drawn third quarter, the Pulse dominated proceedings to end the game with all 10 of the team getting court time.

Rising young goalkeeper Kate Burley and consistent shooter Maia Wilson were positive contributors for the Stars but the home team, coming off back-to-back wins, struggled to contain a Pulse team in full flight.

With 18 more shots at goal, the Pulse enjoyed an influential share of the possession, defenders Karin Burger, Katrina Grant and Sulu Fitzpatrick adding to the bounty with a fine haul of turnover ball.

Both teams provided plenty of movement and flow on attack but with all areas of their court working efficiently, the Pulse inevitably wrested momentum from the Stars.

Wilson was her usual reliable self for the hosts but with fewer opportunities couldn't stop the Pulse building a handy 17-12 lead at the first break.

The Pulse dominated, their attacking play, speed, accuracy and ball placement constantly leaving the Stars on the back foot as they took a 35-22 lead into halftime.

In a bid to stem the flow, Stars coach Kiri Wills introduced Christine Oscar (wing attack) and Olivia Coughlan (goalkeeper) while captain Grace Kara moved to centre as the Stars produced a productive third quarter and held the Pulse to a 50-37 lead at the final break.

Wilson missed only two of her 34 shots on goal, while Aliyah Dunn delivered her usual steady performance in sinking 40 from 44.

-RNZ