They produced a stunning 39-35 victory against Hamilton City, who were beaten by North Harbour in last year’s final, at the Edgar Centre yesterday morning.
It was a full-team defensive effort to secure the win against Waikato-Bay of Plenty defenders Georgia Takarangi and Oceane Maihi and anchored by former Southern Steel midcourter Ali Wilshier, who has signed for the Magic next season after playing for Team Bath, in England, this year.
Hamilton bounced back to beat Central Lakes convincingly 55-21, after Central Lakes lost earlier 49-20 to Auckland.
Auckland also nudged Cambridge 38-35 later in the day.
Hamilton plays Auckland at 10am.
Invercargill beat defending champions North Harbour 39-37 and should breeze past winless Hutt Valley this morning to finish the pool stages strongly.
Counties Manakau remain undefeated after another big 58-29 win against Taranaki yesterday.
This morning they will meet Christchurch Red, who are also undefeated after thumping Howick Pakuranga 68-20 and Taranaki 58-20.
Manawatu thumped Wellington 50-33 and Christchurch Black 49-28 and Waitakere made another statement beating Hutt Valley 67-26.
Waitakere have a big game against North Harbour at 8.30am.
