TOWNSVILLE WIN AT THE FIRE PIT
The Fire’s festive run of home games got off to the perfect, with Townsville taking care of business against Sydney in the opening WNBL fixture of round 8. The hosts who have developed a bad habit of beginning games slowly, bucked that trend to blitz the first quarter, claiming it 33-13. The second period followed a similar pattern. By half time the margin was 35 points and the contest completely one way traffic. The orange onslaught eased after the main break but the damage was done. Townsville triumphing 98-73 to secure a fifth victory of the season. All 5 starters contributed significant points with Alicia Froling (13), Courtney Woods (15), Lauren Cox (15), Lauren Mansfield (14) and Abbey Ellis (18) dropping double digits. While Saffron Shiels sparkled from the bench. The young guard posted 18 points to share top scoring honours with Ellis.
Coach’s Comments
Shannon Seebohm began his post-game press conference by praising his team’s start.
“They were really locked in and focused and you know we need to be able to do that. So I think if we can continue building on that and just really try and ensure that that’s the mindset and the way that we need to try and start every game.”
The coach continued to laud his players’ performance, particularly on the offensive end.
“I think it’s probably the best overall game we’ve played this season. Just the way the ball moved our spacing our execution, you know the girls starting to recognise how we’re being defended and how we want to attack those things.”
Player’s Perspective
Lauren Cox delivered a double double dragging down 10 boards to go along with her 15 points. She set the tone early collecting 3 rebounds and 5 points in the first quarter as the hosts extinguished the Flames from the get-go.
“It was nice to be back home again in front of our fans. Playing 6 of our first 8 on the road is tough but glad to be back home and I just thought we came out with a bunch of energy and kind of jumped on them quick and there was no turning back from there.”
The American also added another 4 blocks to her season tally, taking her total to 33. It’s a trait that’s seen the import quickly become a fan favourite while Townsville’s turning into one of the forward’s favourite destinations.
“It’s been really fun it’s my first time in Australia, I’m working on my Australian accent so you might see that later in the season. But yeah I really love it here, the people are super nice the fans are really friendly and welcoming and Shannon’s a great coach and we have a great team, so I’m having a lot of fun.”
The University of Canberra Capitals are next up at the Fire Pit, on Saturday night. Tickets are available here.