In a significant game for both teams, the Stars fought valiantly but couldn't prevent the Mystics from reigniting their season following three straight losses. After posting their first win last week, the Stars had to settle for a losing bonus point, their sixth of the season.
Injury disruptions to both sides meant a shuffling of line-ups where the absence of shooter Grace Nweke and midcourter Peta Toeava had Tayla Earle slotting in at wing attack and Katie Te Ao, at centre for the Mystics.
Promoted from training partner to the fulltime squad during the week, Holly Mather, centre, joined her sister Lisa in the Stars midcourt for the injured Mila Reuelu-Buchanan while Tori Kolose got the nod at wing attack.
After an even start, the Stars faced strong defensive pressure as Mystics defender Carys Stythe made two quick intercepts, giving the home side the early edge.
Stythe and Phoenix Karaka were effective in limiting the options to Stars' key shooter Maia Wilson, causing the visitors to struggle in making full use of the ball. Despite a strong effort, five straight goals pushed the Mystics out to a 16-13 lead at the first break.
The Stars responded with growing interaction between captain Maia Wilson and Amorangi Malesala, who is working her way back from injury. Their connection continued to flourish as the Stars made a late statement.
With Lisa Mather and Kate Burley providing a non-stop effort on defence, the links on attack fell into place, with Malesala and Wilson getting more ball in their hands under the hoop. The playmaking Malesala was effective from range while Wilson finished off the close-range shots.
The Stars, on the back of improved possession, finished with a flourish, with five unanswered goals of their own to nudge in front 26-25 at halftime.
However, the Mystics' defensive efforts made it difficult for the Stars during a dominant third quarter for the Mystics.
Unforced errors from the Stars resulted in growing confidence for the Mystics, as shooter Hannah Glen enjoyed space and quick service, stretching the Mystics margin to lead 42-35 at the last break.
The Stars produced a similar defensive response in a thrilling final quarter where Lili Tokaduadua, Burley and Lisa Mather, kept the outcome on a knife-edge as the Mystics lead was slowly eroded. However, two late gains from Karaka proved decisive in helping the Mystics repel the spirited Stars' comeback.
The result will keep the Mystics in control of third place at the end of round 10.
Final score:
Northern Stars: 49
Northern Mystics: 51
