AVIS Magic showed heart and determination on the road in Christchurch, pushing the VIP Frames and Trusses Tactix in a competitive contest that finished 68–57 to the home side.
Both teams had plenty to play for in this Round 9 clash, the Tactix chasing maximum points to keep their hopes of hosting the Grand Final alive, and Magic determined to disrupt the race and continue building momentum in their penultimate match.
Magic made a confident start, applying pressure to upset the Tactix’s flow early. Turnovers forced by the defensive unit allowed the visitors to edge ahead in the opening minutes, before the home side settled into their rhythm late in the first quarter.
Wing defence Georgie Edgecombe was a standout through the midcourt, working tirelessly to slow the Tactix transition and force errors. In the attacking end, Magic shooters remained composed under pressure, with captain Ameliaranne Ekenasio once again leading from the front. Ekenasio nailed six of eight super shots, while the team collectively sank seven two-pointers to stay within striking range through the second half.
Despite a strong response from Magic after halftime, including a 13-goal quarter that forced a tactical timeout from the home side, the Tactix held firm. Their experienced defensive duo of Jane Watson and Karin Burger made life tough in the circle, while Te Paea Selby-Rickit and Ellie Bird led a clinical attack, supported by the feeding accuracy of Erikana Pedersen.
While the result didn’t fall Magic’s way, their persistence, two-point shooting accuracy and second-half fight were on full display. With one game to go, the team will be aiming to close out their 2024 season with pride.
