Swifts too strong for Magic in netball

Mar 9, 2015 - 8:40 AM A strong final quarter proved crucial for the NSW Swifts as they held off Waikato-Bay of Plenty Magic 48-43 in their second round trans-Tasman netball league match in Tauranga.

The Swifts were slow to start, allowing the Magic to edge out to a 12-11 lead at the end of the first quarter on Monday.

They upped the pace in the second spell, the Magic giving away too many midcourt penalties as they worked to slow the Swifts' drive through the centre.

Youngster Sam Sinclair worked hard to rein in Swifts centre Jade Clarke, but the canny English international's combination with wing attack Kim Green was hard to break down.

The Magic's injury-plagued season continued. Goal shoot Jo Harten's loss was a real blow midway through the second quarter.

The English international, whose elevation, movement and accuracy are a key part of the Magic's attacking third, took a heavy blow to the sternum in a collision with teammate Grace Rasmussen as they scrambled for a loose ball.

Harten played on but was forced from the court soon after and the Swifts capitalised to take a 23-21 lead into half-time.

Replacement shooter Malia Paseka worked hard, sinking 10 from 17 and showing excellent elevation and athleticism at goal attack as Ellen Halpenny (18 from 25) dropped back to goal shoot.

The Swifts edged out to a five-goal lead early in the third quarter before the Magic steamed back and hit the front 32-30 with four minutes to play.

The visitors battled back to level the scores 34-34 with 15 minutes remaining.

Lifted by outstanding defensive work from Australian internationals Julie Corletto and Sharni Layton, the Swifts piled the pressure on the Magic's circle feed and were ruthless in converting the turnover possession into goals.

Despite constant pressure from Silver Ferns defender Leana de Bruin, Caitlin Thwaites sunk 34 from 42, while Susan Pettitt and rookie goal attack Stephanie Wood both finished with seven from 10.

Source: AAP