Just one game of Youth League action at the MARS® MINERDOME on Sunday, as the second-placed Ballarat Rush took on the third-placed Bendigo Braves.
It was a rough start to the game for the Rush, as they struggled to secure rebounds at both ends of the floor. Not getting the looks they wanted, Coach Darren Govan called an early timeout to ignite the home side’s offense.
Molly Mathews quickly responded with a tough layup, while Claire Constable stepped up and knocked down a triple.
Although still not entirely in rhythm, the Rush managed to take a two-point cushion into quarter time.
Youngster Isabel Fraser was outstanding for Ballarat in the second quarter, going 3/3 from the field and scoring nine points on 4/6 shooting for the game.
Caitlin McLachlan also impressed for the Braves, helping them establish a lead in a tight second term. Bendigo proved near impossible to contain in transition, pushing the ball up the floor at every opportunity.
Lydia Brooks was again strong on the boards, and made good low post position on offense, getting deep catches and either finishing or drawing fouls.
Molly Mathews finally got on track in the third term, hitting three straight shots to carry the Rush back into the lead.
With the game hanging in the balance entering the fourth quarter, the Braves went on an astonishing 20-2 run and opened up an insurmountable lead.
Bendigo went on to win 62-48. Caitlin McLachlan led the visitors with 16 points. Lydia Brooks notched another double-double with 14 points and 10 rebounds for Ballarat, while Claire Constable also added 14 points of her own.