Haier Pulse Determined Not to Underestimate Mystics

Media Release
19 April 2013
Haier Pulse Determined Not to Underestimate Mystics

Despite the differing fortunes of the two teams so far in the ANZ Championship, Haier Pulse Head Coach Robyn Broughton insists her side won’t underestimate the LG Mystics in Sunday night’s vital Round 5 game at Auckland’s Trusts Stadium.

The Mystics remain winless after four rounds, following Monday’s thrilling sudden-death extra time defeat by the EasiYo Tactix, whilst the Haier Pulse have enjoyed two straight victories following a couple of narrow early defeats.

“We’re not going to underestimate their attitude, not after losing that game when I think they probably should have held on to it,” explained Broughton.

“They will come out with a different attitude altogether, especially Cathrine Latu and Maria Tutaia, who we know are top players. Grace Rasmussen, Bailey Mes and Kayla Cullen are in the New Zealand squad as well and they’ve got several young New Zealand players – under 21’s – so they won’t come out again like they did last week.

“Our win over the Steel was a confidence-booster. Being able to hold on, after going seven down in the third quarter, is good progress. It’s quite good for a team at that level to come back with a bit of grit and determination. Joline made a big difference with her ability to carry the ball through the court and with her mana.

“I'm pleased with how all of the combinations went. There's been vast improvement all round, but you'd have to say in that game that Hu and Katrina really pulled it out at the end and got us some really good ball. I also thought the shooting stats were absolutely outstanding. We're only just behind the Steel at the top of the percentage table, which is pretty good from the Pulse's point of view, because we were nowhere near that last year.

“All the combinations are cementing, now that they are more familiar with one another. Things don't just happen automatically at the top level, it takes time.”

The Haier Pulse play their next home game on Sunday 28 April at the TSB Arena, Wellington against the Kia Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic. Centre pass 7.20pm. Tickets are almost sold out so hurry and get yours now through Ticketek at www.ticketek.co.nz.

Keep up to date with all the latest news from the Haier Pulse by visiting www.pulse.org.nz, www.facebook.com/Haier.Pulse and twitter @HaierPulse.

Match reports and statistics are also available from www.anz-championship.com

www.pulse.org.nz | catherine@pulse.org.nz | www.facebook.com/haier.pulse

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