The Robinhood Stars return home where they will be looking to break this year’s deadlock with Te Wānanga o Raukawa Pulse – one game apiece heading into their Round 9 ANZ Premiership contest.

Both teams are coming off narrow defeats but the 13-goal loss to the Pulse in Round 6 will no doubt be fresh in the Stars minds.

Captain Maia Wilson said the team remained confident despite two losses in three weeks in what she described as one of the toughest ANZ Premierships yet.

“I think all six teams are really solid this year and honestly it’s whoever shows up on the day is going to win the game. We can’t take anyone lightly.”

Defender Oceane Maihi has given coach Kiri Wills plenty to ponder ahead of the match after a strong performance in the keeper’s bib – picking up six gains for her side in the three-goal loss to the Mystics. 

Shooter Amorangi Malesala also impressed in the second half at goal attack, nailing 16 of her 17 shots at goal.

"I'm obviously really pleased with how Oceane and Amorangi played coming in there and so there are challenging times ahead regarding selection so watch this space." Wills said.

Wills says they've learnt a lot from recent games. 

"Teams are being way more accurate on attack which means any ball we throw away is literally gifting them goals. We have to tighten up our attack end and make sure we are scoring more off our possession. Wills explained.

"I think our defensive unit have been getting quite a lot of ball in some pretty tough situations too." 

The Pulse would have been happy to grab a bonus point against the Tactix last week, especially without Te Amo Amaru-Tibble on court.

They will be keen to get the goal attack back however with Amaru-Tibble, who was ruled out last week with illness, playing a key role the last time the Pulse met the Stars.

The Stars remain top of the competition ladder, despite last week's loss to the Northern Mystics and have a record of six wins, two losses and one bonus point.

ANZ Premiership Round 9: Robinhood Stars vs Te Wānanga o Raukawa Pulse- Sunday 13th June 6:15pm, Pulman Arena, Auckland

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