Netball: Close call for Sting

The Southern Sting have shown they are still a force in netball's National Bank Cup.

They are into the semi-finals after a 50-41 win over the Canterbury Flames in their final round robin match.

The six times defending champions needed the win to make the top four, having lost their last two matches.

However they have withstood the pressure to lead at every break, despite Flames shooter Shelley Norris slotting 34 goals from 34 attempts.

Sting coach Robyn Broughton admits to a sense of relief.

Broughton says they've never missed out on the top four, and have shown a lot of character to bounce back.

Meanwhile Waikato-Bay of Plenty has survived a scare, pipping the winless Shakers 55-53 in Hamilton.

Waikato-Bay of Plenty trailed 32-24 at halftime before pegging the Capital Shakers back.

The Magic was already assured a semi-final spot.

- NEWSTALK ZB