By Sam Phillips

Norwood Flames 81 | Forestville Eagles 65

Norwood were able to easily account for a talented Forestville side, proving too strong especially over the first 3 quarters to remain with some breathing space on top of the ladder.

Norwood started in imposing fashion, pressing Forestville strongly on the inbound causing a number of turnovers and steals.

This high energy and aggressive play helped Norwood maintain control of the ball, opening up a double digit lead in no time. Forestville took five minutes to score their first points, with Olivia Thompson attempting to will her side on through some strong boards and good offensive play.

Jess Good (11 points, 9 rebounds, 4 steals) was able to find excellent positions inside the key and patient passing saw her capitalise on opportunities. At the break Norwood led by 9, 24-15.      

The second quarter saw a strong start from both teams, trading 3 pointers as Forestville’s Alexandra Duncan managed a perfect record from outside the arc for the half (3/3). Many feared the worst when Flames’ Marisa Stabile fell heavily and remained down on the court. While she did not return, this move appeared to be precautionary as she sat in good spirits with teammates on the bench.

Norwood’s strong rebounding game (63% of first half rebounds, or 8-2) was providing many chances, culminating in Steph Talbot showing her sheer athleticism on a fast break play. Cara Annetts (11 points, 5 rebounds) was also useful in the second, nailing some crucial shots as Norwood increased their lead to 19 at the half.

The third saw much of the same with Talbot picking a further three 3 pointers, while Taylor Ortlepp (13 points, 4 assists) was important directing traffic and driving hard to the basket herself. Hannah Lehmann with a brilliant solo effort provided a rare highlight for Forestville as Norwood again increased their lead by 10 to 29 at the final change.

After a trying start to the fourth quarter with just 6 points in 5 minutes, Forestville began to show some of their good form that had seen them comfortably defeat Sturt last week.

Meg Prosser was outstanding collecting 11 points and 2 steals, providing good leadership out on court. While a comeback victory was out of the question, Forestville ended the match on a positive note.

Similarly, Norwood would be pleased with the ability to get minutes into their bench, a luxury that can be afforded after such a strong start.

Steph Talbot (16 points, 10 rebounds, 6 assists) was best for the Flames, a welcome addition back from Australian duties.

Olivia Thompson (12 points, 12 rebounds) and Sam Defrancesco (11 points) toiled tirelessly but couldn’t showcase their brilliant best, as Norwood showed why they are the team to beat.

Round 14: Saturday, 25 June, 6:30pm

Forestville Eagles v Southern Tigers @ Wayville

North Adelaide Rockets v Norwood Flames @ Hillcrest