Magic in great pre-season form

The Kia Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic comfortably defeated the Fiji Pearls 75-39, in game two of a pre-season exhibition at the Tokoroa Sport and Events Centre last Saturday.

It was the first time an elite netball game had been played at the centre since its opening in 2012.

South Waikato communications officer Sina Tolovae said it was an exciting match.

"We hope to host more games of this calibre here in the future."

More than 300 tickets were sold for the event, with additional seating added due to the high interest in the game.

Magic fan Denise Lee was excited to have her favourite team play in her hometown.

She said it was important for the Magic netball team to play in the smaller communities to give something back to those smaller centres.

The Tokoroa community provided volunteers for the day including ushers, ball girls, ticketing sales and MC entertainment.

"The benefit of having the Magic play in the smaller centres also means that the local facilities are used and local administrators have the opportunity to showcase their skills," said Lee.

The Magic started the game strongly and never slowed down, racing out to a 40-19 lead at half time.

Magic wing defence Jamie-Lee Price (daughter of Warriors' Steve Price) had a solid game, restricting the Fijian attacking end around the circle, picking up intercepts and causing errors for the opposition.

Game one was played in Taupo last Thursday with the Magic thumping the Fiji Pearls 79-45.

The two-match series provides good practice for the Kia Magic leading up to their first game of the ANZ Championship this weekend against the Adelaide Thunderbirds.