THE Pirates will arrive in Swan Hill today with the intent to dethrone the Lady Flyers in what will be a good match up in the next round of Country Basketball League (CBL) action.
Swan Hill are coming off a good win against the Shepparton Gators last Sunday and will host Echuca tonight in what will be a mouth watering contest.
This match is becoming tradition with the women’s sides clashing each year before the Swan Hill Invitational Tournament tomorrow and Sunday.
The Pirates are 1-1 so far this season, while the Flyers are unbeaten on a record of 1-0.
Last season, the clashes between the sides were close and another hard fought win is expected with two highly competitive sides.
Swan Hill Lady Flyers coach Sharon Denham said her side would look to continue their drive from their match against the Gators on Sunday.
“We will look to drive the tempo through our guards, the rotations are important and we want to set the tone for the game,” she said.
“Good ball movement and dribble penetration will be required offensively and a good performance from the bigs to control the rebound count at both ends.
“Defensively the team as whole need to be disciplined and cannot afford to get into early foul trouble sending the opposition to the free throw line for easy baskets as they did in the first round.”
Guards Kelsey McCoy and Laura Anderson are keys for the Flyers with their speed and ability to attack the basket at pace taking other sides off guard.
They will be backed up by Tess Denham, Olivia Jones and Jaya Blandthorn who each offer different aspects to the side.
Madeleine Jeans’ drive and mid-range shooting ability will once again be a feature as the young side continue to learn how to use bigs Zoe Fuller and Jenna Jenkins who will post up for their smaller teammates.
New recruit Courtney Duff has also added an extra attacking weapon for Denham’s side after a solid performance against the Gators.
Tonight’s tip off is at 7pm at the Swan Hill Basketball Stadium.
