Lightning strike with win over Flames

The Adelaide Lightning have defeated Brydens Sydney Uni Flames to claim the series 2-1 with a 80-72 win, proving that apparently lightning can strike twice.

Despite their 2/2 road trip last weekend and a pronounced boost in confidence, the Flames remain two wins behind Adelaide who have cemented their fourth-place position on the ladder.

It was a tight tussle from the get-go with Sydney and Adelaide impossible to split in the first half, the Flames going into the main break trailing by only two, however it was the third quarter which saw the hosts come unstuck scoring only 10 to the Lightning’s 17.

In the fourth both sides brought major intensity with one Sydney scoring run matched with strong Adelaide defence, and visa versa. Despite a big effort (particularly in the closing few minutes) the Flames were unable to chase down Adelaide’s lead, going down by eight.

Alice Kunek top scored for the Flames with 26 points, followed by Alex Wilson and Jess Kuster with 14 each. Colleen Planeta who is out with an ACL injury and has been outstanding for the Flames this season was sorely missed, as was Britt Smart who will hopefully make her return to the lineup in the coming weeks.

Watch the Flames take on the in-form Melbourne Boomers on Sunday, 5 January as the fight to finals begins. Tickets available here.