A loss will leave them vulnerable, as the fifth-placed Queensland Firebirds are favoured to beat West Coast Fever today and draw level with Steel on 16 points. The Firebirds presently have a commanding advantage in points differential.
The Magic were a team on a mission, with defender Casey Williams particularly staunch and centre Laura Langman in workaholic mood as they turned in a storming effort in the second quarter.
They were the better team in the opening period to earn a 14-11 advantage then blew Adelaide away to lead 29-19 at the main break.
The Australians hit back in the third quarter, but the Magic still led 40-33 entering the final period.
Captain Langman admitted there was an element of desperation to the Magic's play.
"We had our backs to the wall. To come out and put on a performance like that was just brilliant."
- NZPA
