Mystics shooter Bailey Mes (right) and Pulse defender Maddie Gordon
Photo: Photosport
But they needed to hold out a fast-finishing Pulse side which turned around a 12-goal deficit and almost forced the match into extra time.
A convincing first-quarter effort and greater accuracy in the shooting circle set the Mystics up for the win, giving them a 19-12 lead at the first break.
But from there, the match was evenly contested as the Pulse successfully applied their own pressure on defence.
Midcourter Peta Toeava s ability to find shooter Grace Nweke quickly and cleanly meant the towering 19-year-old netted all but one of the Mystics first half goals as they took a 33-26 lead into the main break.
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