A fourth-quarter fade-out cost the Northern Mystics the chance to secure a playoff berth as the New South Wales Swifts stormed home to win 59-53 in Auckland.

It was a brave performance from the home team on the back of some strong shooting from Cathrine Tuivaiti and Maria Tutaia and relentless defence led by impressive goal keep Anna Harrison, they pushed the Swifts for three quarters only to run out of steam when it mattered most, with the visitors winning the final period 18-12.