Wallan Panthers’ women’s side recorded its first ever win in the Country Victoria Basketball League north east division on Sunday.
After losing their opening three matches, the Panthers had their best chance of a win so far against another win less side, the Swan Hill Flyers.
Missing captain Tracy Tuesley, the Panthers were made to scrap and work hard for the 59-45 win at home.
Swan Hill had the early ascendency in the first half as they capitalised on the Panthers turnovers.
Despite eight turnovers in the first quarter and a further seven in the second quarter, the Panthers managed to hold a 29-28 lead at half time largely to the work of Emma Renton and Alex Darby.
The Panthers broke open the game in the third quarter as they were able to get into a better defensive rhythm.
Pressure from the Panthers restricted the Flyers to just two points in the first eight and half minutes of the quarter. They both came through free throws.
Darby continued her good work and was able to find the basket, while Gemma Jackson started to have an impact on the scoreboard.
Holding a 12 point lead going into the final term, the Panthers managed to hold off the Flyers to record their first win.
Sarah Taylor top scored for the Panthers with 12 points, while Jayda Hunter’s defensive effort on the Flyers’ guards played a big part in the win.
Jackson, Renton and Darby were all big contributors in the win.
Panthers coach Warren Taylor said despite winning ugly he would take the win.
“I’d always rather win ugly than lose pretty,” he said.
“It was an ugly, scrappy game with way too many turnovers for us, but what really impressed me was with how we found our feet after half time, especially defensively.
“After those couple of big losses we have re-jigged our offence a bit and it looks much better for us.”
The Panthers’ men’s side had the bye.
