WBBL Trophy: Caledonia Pride 50, Manchester Mystics 59
Caledonia Pride were beaten by physical Manchester Mystics in the Women’s British Basketball Trophy at The Oriam but they are edging closer to their first win.
The 59-50 scoreline could have been closer had the home side taken a number of clear scoring chances during the entertaining game at Riccarton.
Pride started well and went in front early on only to be pegged back and overtaken as Mystics led 13-11 at the end of the first quarter.
The lead was extended to 30-24 at the end of the second session but the next session was crucial.
Manchester stormed to a 49-32 advantage and it proved too much for the bravehearts who closed to 51-46 with three minutes remaining.
Coach Bart Sengers promised to cut down on turnovers from their previous home game against league leaders Nottingham Wildcats and Pride did that. He has another full week before they travel to Sheffield Hatters.
The Dutchman said: “It was a physical game but we have to learn to play smarter.
“We cut the turnovers which is good and that is something we have been working on.
“We are making chances and we have to take them however this our first season and we are competing with the best in the league.”
Tricia Oakes top scored with 16 points with Natalie Bastian next best on 11 while Sarah Thomson and Peacock both claimed nine points each.
Top for Manchester was Dominique Allen with 16 points and Amy Browne with 15.
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