Trailing 47-42 at the start of the fourth quarter, the Steel fought back to level the score at 47-47 early on. Captain Kimiora Poi’s intercept and subsequent lead of 49-48 brought coach Wendy Frew to her feet in excitement, forcing the Mystics to call a timeout.
Despite Australian Diamond shooter Donnell Wallam’s absence due to a wrist injury, Peta Toeava stepped up into the goal attack position with Tayla Earle taking on the wing attack role. The strategic move paid off as the Mystics regained a two-point lead, putting pressure on the Steel.
The game continued to see-saw with both teams leveling the score multiple times and the lead changing hands. In a nail-biting finish, Filda Vui’s crucial two-pointer tied the game before securing a one-point victory for the Mystics, earning them the Georgina Salter Memorial Trophy for the first time.
Throughout the game, the Steel displayed tenacity and resilience, rallying back from deficits and showcasing their potential. Poi stood out with her exceptional performance, contributing 31 feeds to the team’s effort. The battle under the post between Aliyah Dunn and Catherine Hall was intense, with Dunn eventually gaining the upper hand.
Serina Daunakamakama’s maturity and strategic play added depth to the Steel’s attack, while the team’s solid defensive wall disrupted the Mystics’ rhythm. Despite a strong fightback, the Mystics’ experience and composure allowed them to maintain control and secure the win.
The match was a testament to the competitive spirit and skill of both teams, leaving fans on the edge of their seats until the final buzzer. The Steel may have come up short, but their performance showed why they are a force to be reckoned with in the competition.
