The Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic were forced to fend off a late-charging Mainland Tactix before prevailing 52-49 to claim their second trans-Tasman netball win this season in Hamilton.
Facing a New Zealand team for the first time this campaign, the Magic made a rollicking start with slick through-court play and accurate finishing to leave their southern visitors grappling for a reply.
To their credit, the Tactix recovered admirably from a 10-goal deficit to force their way back into the match and win the final two quarters.
Both coaches were left concerned at the high number of turnovers committed by their respective teams.
With just a one-goal lead midway through the final stanza, the Magic turned on some big defence while retaining cool heads on attack to eventually pocket the victory points.
The Magic have now won two from four outings while the Tactix remain winless.
The hosts welcomed back the steadying influence of shooter Jo Harten, the England import overcoming a rib injury to take her place. Teenagers Jamie-Lee Price and Samantha Sinclair retained their places at centre and wing defence respectively in a youthful midcourt.
Coming into the day unwell, captain Anna Thompson remained on the bench for the start, the Tactix starting with Erikana Pedersen at wing attack and Keisha Grant at centre.
