Magic goal shoot Lenize Potgieter and Pusle goal keep Sulu Fitzpatrick clash. Photo / Photosport
Pulse 61
Magic 46
The top of the table Central Pulse have kept their historic winning streak alive after defeating the Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic at Hamilton's Claudelands Arena.
For the first time in their 11-year history, the Pulse won their fourth consecutive game, claiming a 61-46 victory in the round three clash.
Read more: Central Pulse showcase young talent in opening round of the ANZ Premiership
The Magic showed promise with a lineup that included their sharp shooting South African import Lenize Potgieter, who returned from a long-term ankle injury in round two.
But with the absence of Silver Ferns defender Kelly Jury, who suffered a suspected dislocated shoulder during the Magic's loss to the Southern Steel on Wednesday night, the Waikato side's strength was naturally offset.
The experienced defence from Magic captain Casey Kopua saw an unusually slow start from Pulse shooters Aliyah Dunn and Tiana Metuarau, who could only edge the Wellington side to a narrow 12-10 opening quarter lead.
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However, sticking with their settled lineup, Pulse captain Katrina Grant was back on the court alongside her tenacious defending counterpart, Sulu Fitzpatrick. The duo's fast connections and resilient defence made sure the Magic midcourters struggled to get the ball to Potgieter - which inevitably saw the Pulse extend their lead to a healthy 10 goals by halftime.
The Magic fell further out of the match in the final quarters with an array of slip-ups and missed opportunities, while the Pulse held their composure to finish the game in style.
Read more: Southern Steel re-find resolve to edge Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic
The Magic remain at the bottom of the ANZ Premiership ladder having failed to win any of their matches so far this season. Meanwhile, the leading Pulse will enjoy a 10-day break before a rematch with the Steel in round four.
The Steel are next in action, facing the Northern Mystics tomorrow night in Invercargill.
Silver Ferns goal shoot Grace Nweke speaks about the Constellation Cup series and the rivalry against the Diamonds in the final match. Video / Alyse Wright