Fire finish 2018 on a winning note
The JCU Townsville Fire will bring in the New Year on a winning note after defeating the Sydney Uni Flames 93-80.
Having endured a tough run throughout December with star skipper Suzy Batkovic sitting on the sidelines, the Fire re-found their offensive rhythm as Ally Malott (19 points, eight rebounds and three blocks) led four players in double figures.
The JCU Townsville Fire finish 2018 on a winning note with a 13-point victory over the Flames! Ally Malott was terrific with 19 points & 8 rebounds, while Tess Madgen ( 9 points, 9 assists) & Stella Beck (9 points & 9 rebounds) both flirted with double-doubles. #FireUpTownsville pic.twitter.com/0KW2iy4UhN
— Townsville Fire (@TownsvilleFire) December 30, 2018
Tess Madgen (nine points, five rebounds and nine assists) and Stella Beck (nine points, nine rebounds and four assists) both flited with double-doubles.
During a hot start to the game, Darcee Garbin (16 points and four rebounds) made back-to-back baskets before the Flames were able to go on a run.
Madgen was able to keep the reigning champions in striking distance with Zitina Aokuso (15 points, two rebounds and two assists) providing some scoring punch off the bench.
Trailing 20-23 at quarter-time, the Flames were able to double their advantage before Malott took over.
The WNBA draftee tallied 15 consecutive points including four-of-four from beyond the arc to snatch the lead in the shadows of half-time.
Splash! Ally Malott with her fourth triple π₯π₯π₯π₯ – sheβs up to 17 – & we lead 39-38! #FireUpTownsville
— Townsville Fire (@TownsvilleFire) December 30, 2018
A Tahlia Tupaea buzzer beater, however, provided the hosts with a slender 41-39 margin at the main change.
In the second half, Garbin again began aggressively as she bookended a triple from Madgen with scores of her own.
Aokuso then rattled off nine of the next 11 points for the Fire before Garbin stroked a late triple to provide a 65-63 lead at three-quarter-time.
In the final term, Beck started to run hot before Casey Samuels (11 points) struck three daggers from long-range to ensure a double-digit victory.
Click here to see full box scores between the Fire and the Flames.