The transtasman competition will take on a distinctly local derby flavour as the Canterburybased Tactix square off against the Otago and Southlandcombined Steel franchise.
It might be a well-worn phrase, but Broughton is adamant the result will hinge on defence - her team's ability to tighten its defence throughout court, while at the same time trying to break through the Tactix's defensive circle fortress.
‘‘We need to improve our full court defence from one end to the other. You're not just defending because you have a goal keep or a goal defence bib on your back.
‘‘I'll be looking for our whole court defence to pick up. I know from experience you are only as good as your full court D.''
The Tactix is one of the form teams of the competition and after two rounds has notched up wins over the Northern Mystics and New South Wales Swifts.
A win tonight will see it take the outright lead in the competition after the Melbourne Vixens lost for the first time yesterday.
But the winning run has not surprised Broughton, who says the talent-laden Tactix's results should not have caught anyone unawares.
‘‘They've got Silver Ferns, New Zealand A players and an ex Australian player. They're loaded with experience.''
While the mid-court boasts the evergreen Julie Seymour, Silver Fern Maree Bowden and former Otago Rebel pocket rocket Phillipa Finch, Broughton believes it is at the defensive end where the Tactix has dominated.
Broughton said in pre-season matches between the two teams, the Steel matched the Tactix through the mid-court but could not break down its defensive circle.
While the Steel has yet to find a rhythm in the competition, last week's scratchy extra time 52-50 victory over the Central Pulse has lifted team confidence.
‘‘We're feeling really positive. ‘‘I wasn't totally satisfied last week but we certainly put it together in the extra time. It gives us experience of extra time. I could see everybody taking a step up then and really making it count.''
The Steel has had to contend with a tough opening draw, and will have played four matches on the road before getting a chance to step out at its Invercargill fortress at Southland Stadium.
Broughton said she relished the prospect of hometown advantage but success in the tournament would likely hinge on claiming victories on the road.
‘‘We had a Steel dinner on Friday night with 300 people there who are supporters. You realise how important they are to you. They're all positive and cheerful.
‘‘It would be nice to be at home soon, but it's another two weeks away, so we just have to get on with it.''
Broughton has been impressed by the early rounds of the inaugural tournament and believes competition for play-off spots will be tight.
‘‘I definitely think having the Australian teams involved is a good step up for these players. ‘‘It's really good that players who aren't Silver Ferns are getting an opportunity to play in an international-type competition. It must improve New Zealand netball in the long run.''
