Rd 8 – Capitals vs Lightning Match Report

December 24, 2023 | Adelaide Lightning news

Playing in front of a big crowd in Canberra, the Adelaide Lightning took on the UC Capitals in a close head-to-head match.

FIRST HALF

Coming out strong in the first half, the UC Capitals could not miss from the arch. Focusing on cutting and lots of ball movement, the Caps were a threat from both inside and outside the paint. Making some beautiful passes and using a high IQ, Jade Melbourne had a big influence in the first half. Creating for herself and others, Melbourne had a huge 17-points and 5 – assists. Backing her up was Alex Sharp and Alex Fowler on the defensive end, gathering rebound after rebound to give Capitals the opportunity to run the floor.

Even with the Capitals strong start, the Lightning were never far behind. With similar intent to the Capitals, Lightnings offensive transition led to some great scores and early shot – clock points. Displaying intent and high execution on their moves were Jocelyn Willoughby and Isobel Borlase. Working hard on both ends, they put points on the board while creating some much-needed stops in the Capitals run. By half, Lightning had worked the Capitals lead back to a 10-point difference.

SECOND HALF

Coming out of the break, the Lightning needed to push hard. With consistent looks at the basket and some well executed basketball, the Lightning starting five all had double digit points to finish the game. Isobel Borlase and Lauren Mansfield finished the game as equal top scorers with 16-points each, while Isabelle Bourne and Brianna Turner having a big effect on the boards. Turner earnt herself a double-double with 10-points and 12-rebounds. Following closely behind, Bourne finished with 10-points and 9-rebounds. With some great ball movement and tough defence displayed by the Lightning, they were always so close to the Capitals small lead.

Despite the massive efforts from the Lightnings starting five, the Capitals held strong till the very end. Using lots of late shot clock opportunities, the Caps made some fantastic scoring options. Continuing their shooting streak on the three, Jade Melbourne could not miss. Struggling to stop her, she had a massive 31-points and 7 – assists to finish the game. Alongside Melbourne’s efforts, Alex Sharp had a hefty double-double with 18-points and 13-rebounds, giving the Capitals multiple second chance opportunities. With the huge efforts from the Caps line up, they got the win over Lightning by only 13-points.

For the Adelaide Lightning fans, our next game is on the 30th of December at HOME. Be sure to grab your tickets now for a big game at the Adelaide 36ers Arena against the Southside Flyers. Tip – off is at 7:00pm, be ready to cheer loud for our Lightning, fighting for their next win.