In a defining moment of the game, Steel goal attack Georgia Heffernan sunk a late two-point shot to level the score at 57-57 with just 37 seconds remaining. The team then showed composure and determination as Aliyah Dunn sealed the victory with a buzzer-beating goal, sending the Steel bench into a frenzy.
Coach Wendy Frew hailed the game as season-defining for the Steel, who remain in contention for a playoff spot. The team’s display of courage and resilience was particularly impressive given their previous heavy defeat to the Pulse.
Reflecting on the win, Heffernan expressed the team’s unwavering belief and unity, emphasizing their determination to come out on top.
With upcoming home games against the Magic and Stars, as well as an away fixture against the Mystics, the Steel are looking to build on this momentum and secure their place in the postseason.
The match saw both teams deliver moments of brilliance, with the Pulse initially taking the lead before the Steel fought back with a strong showing from the Heffernan sisters.
Despite facing a significant deficit in the third quarter, the Steel refused to back down, mounting a comeback and eventually clinching the victory in dramatic fashion.
The final scores:
Southern Steel 58
Aliyah Dunn: 32 goals (32/35)
Georgia Heffernan: 26 goals (24/26)
Central Pulse 57
Amelia Walmsley: 49 goals (49/53)
Tiana Metuarau: 8 goals (7/9)
Quarter scores: Pulse 16-14, 34-30, 50-41.
