The Eagles managed to hold off a spirited Falcons line-up and claim a crucial six-point win in the Qualifying Final.

 

The encounter was close throughout, with the margin remaining in close reach of both teams during the four quarters.

 

After a disjointed opening term that saw the Falcons take an early lead, the Eagles showed off their new defensive philosophy in the second to take over the game. The Falcons regrouped after half-time and the Eagles led by just three points at the final change. Then in one of the most entertaining quarters of basketball all season, the Eagles managed to fend off the Falcons and secure a hard-fought win.

 

The Falcons were all over the rebounds and recorded 76 boards to the Eagles’ 48. Amazingly, 43 of the Falcons’ rebounds were offensive, thanks largely to Jessie McPherson, who had one of the biggest games in Youth League Women history with 19 points and a landmark 30 rebounds (including an unbelievable 20 offensive). Team-mate McPherson also threw in three assists for good measure.

 

While the Falcons dominated the boards, they let themselves down from the field, where they finished at 27.8 per cent, including just one three-pointer from 26 attempts. The Eagles faired better from the field, as they shot 25 for 77.

 

Tara Feben led the Eagles with 15 points, while Kahlia Ashton stepped up for 13. Amy Faulkner and Rebecca Romeo both had 11. For the Falcons, McPherson was helped out by Caitlin Hindle, who scored 15 points of her own.

Game MVP: Jessie McPherson

 

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