WAIBOP Matarau closed out their 2025 season in style, securing a well deserved 64–56 victory over Southern Blast in Invercargill. Despite technical issues at the score bench causing confusion between the stadium scoreboard and Champion Data stats - only resolved three quarters into the game - the team stayed composed and focused throughout.
Matarau came out firing in the first quarter, buoyed by the inclusion of Magic players Kate Taylor and Reeghan de Bono, who slotted in seamlessly. Their strong start saw them take a confident 21–16 lead into the first break. Building on that momentum, Matarau continued to dominate in the second quarter, winning it 15–13. While the official score showed 37–29 at halftime, scoreboard errors left it reading 34–32, creating plenty of sideline confusion - but not for the players, who kept their heads down and eyes on the task.
The third quarter saw Matarau edge ahead again, 15–14, maintaining their composure and control. Southern Blast surged early in the final spell, going on a 10–3 run and threatening a comeback. But Matarau responded with grit and determination, rallying to level the quarter 13–13 and sealing the 64–56 win.
It was a strong, united performance to cap off the season, showing just how far the team has come. A well earned victory and a finish to be proud of.
