On the back of a strong defensive performance, the Stars returned to the winners’ circle with a hard-fought 59–55 win over Te Wānanga o Raukawa Pulse at TSB Arena in Round 3.
With valuable ANZ Premiership points on the line, both sides brought intensity, but it was the Stars who secured their second win of the season — lifting them to second on the league ladder.
Despite early-season injury challenges — with Greer Sinclair still on a return-to-play plan and Lili Tokaduadua sidelined for the remainder of the Premiership with an ACL injury — the Stars showed resilience. They absorbed sustained pressure from the Pulse, made a decisive move late in the third quarter, and held firm through the final 15 minutes.
The defensive unit led the charge, with Kate Burley dominant in the circle and tireless work from Mila Reuelu-Buchanan and Samon Nathan through the midcourt. While the Pulse pushed hard in the closing stages to claim a bonus point, the Stars never relinquished control.
A key momentum shift came with a change in the shooting circle, as Martina Salmon delivered an outstanding performance — sinking 30 from 33 attempts and proving difficult to contain.
Both teams entered the clash off the back of Round 2 losses, eager to bounce back. The Stars made just one change to their starting line-up, with Landrigan coming in, and made an immediate impact — building an early buffer through improved defensive cohesion.
Composed ball movement and patience on attack allowed the Stars to find Amelia Walmsley effectively in the circle, helping establish a five-goal lead before the Pulse fought back.
The hosts, sparked by Ameliaranne Ekenasio, clawed their way into the contest and levelled the scores at 15–15 by the first break. Momentum continued to swing, with the Pulse edging ahead during the second quarter before a tactical shift saw Walmsley move to goal attack and Salmon take over shooting duties.
The adjustment paid off, with Salmon’s strong hold under the post helping the Stars stay in the fight, trailing narrowly 30–29 at halftime.
The turning point came in the third quarter. The Stars lifted their intensity, capitalised on Pulse errors, and surged ahead. A long-range buzzer-beater from Walmsley capped the run, extending the lead to 47–38 heading into the final quarter.
From there, the Stars held their nerve to close out a crucial win on the road.
The Stars now head to back to Pulman Arena, Auckland where they'll meet the Magic next Sunday.
