The Hoop City Geelong United Supercats women have proved they have the ability to match it with the best in NBL1 South after suffering a narrow loss to a talented Bendigo Braves roster.
The Supercats had an opportunity to send the match-up with the Braves into overtime but were unable to get a shot attempt away, falling 89-86 to the undefeated visitors.
Trailing by as much as ten points in the final quarter, a three-point bomb from Jess Scannell tied the scores with 34 seconds remaining.
However, the Braves were able to find an open Madeline Sexton on the next play, and she knocked down an open attempt from beyond the arc that proved to be the difference.
“While we were obviously disappointed with the result, I couldn’t be more pleased with the progress we have made as a team over the past fortnight,” coach Matt Paton said.
“Playing in front of 1500-plus supporters was an amazing atmosphere and the team showed those fans that when we gel as a unit, we have the talent to go toe-to-toe with the best teams in the competition.
“We will address a few defensive issues through the week and make the necessary adjustments, but the team is already looking forward to next week.”
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Captain Sarah Elsworthy went close to a triple-double with 22 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists, while also grabbing three steals.
Scannell was hot from outside, making six of her seven three-point attempts on the way to 20 points.
While Ella Tofaeono (16 points, 11 rebounds) ands Monica Okoye (17 points, five assists, three rebounds, three steals) did all they could to drag Geelong United over the line.
The Geelong United men were made to pay for a tardy second half, outscored 50-32 in a 96-86 loss to the previously winless Braves.
The Supercats led by as much as ten points midway during the third quarter.
However, the visitors went on a 15-3 run to end the period and wrestle back the momentum.
The two teams went toe-to-toe for the majority of the final term, with Geelong United leading 85-84 with just over two-and-a-half minutes remaining.
But it was Bendigo who finished better, going on a 12-2 run to end the contest.
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In his first game back from a knee reconstruction, George Blagojevic was massive.
He finished with 26 points, 16 rebounds, three assists, three blocks and two steals in an impressive individual performance.
Gabe Hadley finished with 24 points, four rebounds and four assists, while Nick Velasquez finished with 15 points.
The Hoop City Geelong United Supercats women and men face a home-road double in Round 3 of NBL1 South action.
They’ll host Sandringham on Friday night before making the trek to Casey Sports Stadium for a meeting with the Cavaliers on Saturday evening.
Tickets for the match-up with the Sabres are available HERE
