Steel ready to tackle Mystics 

April 24, 2026

The Ascot Park Hotel Southern Steel is striving to continue its winning momentum when it tackles the Go Sweet Spot Mystics in Auckland on Sunday. 

Any ANZ Premiership clash between two of the competition’s most tenacious teams is always eagerly anticipated by netball fanatics and the stability of their respective lineups heading into 2026 bodes well to see a powerful rivalry continue. 

Victory over the Mystics has eluded the southerners in recent times but, with three of the past four games decided by just four goals or less, the intensity of the battles ensures it’s always a hotly-contested encounter. 

While last weekend’s 69-60 victory over the Stars was a welcome confidence booster, head coach Wendy Frew is seeking more from her players. 

“The Stars game was a massive step up for us but we learned there are still errors we can improve on with some slight adjustments,” she said.  

“It’s really important we continue the momentum. Being a double round competition, it’s absolutely vital to get wins on the board early, otherwise you’re just chasing your tail at the end of the season and relying on other results. 

“It’s really up to us now to keep that trajectory going and work really hard against a strong Mystics side. They (Mystics) have had a couple of injuries but we’re prepared for whoever takes that court and will adapt to whatever scenario presents itself on the day. 

“We know it’s going to be tough but we’re excited about the challenge. Our focus has been ensuring we have our game plan adjusted to take on their strengths and weaknesses and see where we can exploit them. We’ve had three good trainings this week, ensuring we are all on the same wavelength and united as one.” 

Set to play her 150th National League match, star recruit Maia Wilson will prove a key asset for the Mystics in the shooting stakes. However, Frew identified threats across all positions and emphasised another full team effort would be crucial to success. 

“We respect the Mystics a lot as a team. They are strong throughout the court, have been together for a long time and have a lot of experience,” she said. 

“So as a team we need to make sure we focus on our own job, execute our structures and are really committing for that full 60 minutes. We need to cherish the ball and, if something’s not working, we need to change it up in that moment, not wait until the break or it’s too late.”