The Northern Stars are reaping the benefits of a competitive warm-up ahead of their hectic restart to the ANZ Premiership

The Aucklanders take on the defending champion Central Pulse this afternoon - a repeat of last year's final - before facing the Mainland Tactix tomorrow.

The Stars played rivals the Northern Mystics in a practice match last week, which coach Kiri Wills says helped stir up the competitive juices.



The Stars and Pulse each play their first game in over three months.

Centre pass from Auckland is at 5pm.