Lynx clear on top after win number six
The Perth Lynx had an impressive win over the UC Capitals on Saturday afternoon by six points, solidifying their place on top of the ladder, 71-65.
It was a gutsy performance from both teams, but the Lynx made more plays in the end to get their sixth straight win.
Brittany McPhee had a strong second half scoring 17 points in the last 20 minutes of the game.
McPhee praised the team’s fight and intensity against a high quality opponent.
“It was just one of those battles, and obviously both teams really, really wanted to win,” she said.
“We knew going into the game that they were a great opponent, so it was just whoever fought hardest.”
Alison Shwagmeyer finished with 15 points, six rebounds and two steals.
13 of those 15 points came in the first quarter, which allowed the spotlight to stay on her and let others get into the game.
McPhee said this helps gives different players in the team opportunities to step up at different times.
“They had to focus on [Schwagmeyer] because she was hot, so it helped open up the lanes for other people.”
The Lynx defense has been a key for them all season, and today’s game was no different.
Coach Andy Stewart said the team’s ability to stop their opponent is enjoyable to see.
“We’re playing defense all the way through the shot clock, and it’s fun to watch,” he said.
McPhee said the team grinds so hard on the defensive end and is something they work on all the time.
“You can’t take any plays off with our type of defense because then it’s going to give someone a layup, so [Andy] definitely instills that kind of intensity on defense.”
Kelsey Griffin was a standout player for the UC Capitals, finishing with 30 points and 18 rebounds.
Stewart credited Griffin’s abilities, but was proud his team could still get the win.
“She’s an all-round excellent player,” he said.
“What i’m happy about is that she had 30 and 18, and we still got the win.”
Kayla Steindl had nine points and five rebounds, and hit three shots from long-range at important times.
McPhee knows the Lynx are hard to beat with how deep their team is.
“It makes it hard for teams to scout and and not just focus on one player, that’s the plan for us moving forward.”
“There’s a lot of weapons there.”
The Lynx will play their next game at home on Friday night, 16 November against the Melbourne Boomers.
Tip-off is at 6:30pm.