Magic netball dynasty

CUP RUNNETH OVER: Local Magic star, Laura Langman (right) with captain Amigene Metcalfe (left) and defender Joline Henry after Friday night’s second consecutive National Bank Cup netball triumph. Photo by Mike Stinson-PhotoPro.nz

By Colin Thorsen

Magic midcourt dynamo Laura Langman was singing the praises of the home crowd after her team beat the Sting for the second year running to claim the National Bank Cup 67-43 on Friday night.

“The resources that are available to teams these days ensure every team is in tip top shape, so any slight advantage you can gain is vital,” she says. “The home crowd (at Mystery Creek) were amazing, I can still hear the chant of ‘Magic’ ringing in my ears.”

Langman says having their friends and family in the best eats in the house was very special.

“We’re stoked to again be national champions after experiencing a very up and down season. We have walked the tight rope a few times but I believe we all knew our potential and we worked hard as a unit to iron out the creases.”

Langman says the whole game was about accumulated pressure.

“The first half was a real grinder. We knew if we kept scoring our own and any bonuses that came our way, it would go down to the wire. But we just seemed to let rip in those last six minutes and pulled away.”

Langman says coach Noeline Taurua and the Magic board had created a ‘magical’ environment.

“Noles is a lady of very few words - her actions speak louder than words. A simple wink or pat on the back is all that is needed to know you’re not doing too shabby.”