The South West Slammers’ men’s and women’s squads stood a strong chance of taking down Rockingham Flames in round six.
The women’s team was on a high after its win over East Perth Eagles last weekend.
Despite missing Tayah Burrows and Cian Parsons, the Slammers believed they could score their first home win in 2018 against the Flames.
With help from Maddison Allen (clinching a double-double with 14 points and 10 rebounds) and captain Jacinta Bourne (15), the visitors hit the lead in the first term.
A series of personal fouls and turnovers prevented the Slammers from creating more scoring opportunities.
After trailing by 14 at quarter time, Georgia Denehey (15) and Courtney Bayliss (13) kept their side in contention in the second term.
The Slammers could not stop Rockingham import Darcee Garbin from going on the attack.
Garbin – shooting three jump shots, two three-pointers and two free-throws in the second quarter – helped the Flames reach a 23-point lead at the main break.
Despite the efforts of Slammers’ stars Charlotte van Kleef (8) and Tori Fisher (6), the home side was outmatched by the Flames at every turn.
Rockingham was in a comfortable position throughout the fourth quarter.
Strong defensive plays and communication ensured the visitors’ 78 to 51 victory.
The Slammers’ women’s team resides 10th on the State Basketball League ladder.
Looking for its first win of the season, the Slammers’ men’s side was initially enthusiastic about its chances against Rockingham.
While captain Clive Harvey-Weeden (8) impressed for the home side, the first quarter belonged to Flames’ stars Ryan Godfrey (28) and Greg Hire (13).
The Slammers benefited from the return of Brian Voelkel. The import picked up a double-double with 15 points and 12 rebounds.
Rockingham led by seven at quarter time after converting a slew of three-pointers and offensive rebounds.
Flames Joshua Ritchart (31 points, 10 rebounds) and Curtis Washington dominated possession and extended the Flames’ lead.
After trailing by 20 at the main break, Slammers Michael Lay (21), Travis Durnin (17), and Matthew Leary (8) worked to close the gap in the third term.
Although the home side picked up steam in the final term, the Flames did enough to clinch a 122 to 82 win.
The Slammers’ men’s side remains at the bottom of the ladder after six rounds.
Both Slammers’ teams will take on Cockburn Cougars at Eaton Recreation Centre this Saturday.
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