The Brisbane Capitals QBL teams have taken round one of back-to-back games against the Northside Wizards last night with two wins ahead of the re-match at NAB Stadium next Saturday night.

With player/coach Kristen Veal still out with a hamstring injury, Capitals guard Sarah Davis was instrumental in the 40 point win with 24 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals and 3 blocks in just over 30 minutes of court time that should push for the round’s QBL Player of the Week Award.

It took the Capitals the first quarter to break the shackles after locking the scores at 12 points each at the first break, however the sleeping giant awoke in the second and third quarters restricting the Wizards to just 8 points in both quarters whilst pouring in 17 in each.

The final quarter was a mere formality, outscoring the hosts 24 – 10 to run away with the 70 – 30 win.

“We’ll take that win and keep moving forward,” head coach Kristen Veal offered.

“We play these girls again next week at our place and I’m sure it’ll be a different game. You can’t take anyone in this league lightly and we definitely won’t be doing that,” she said.

Veal is expected to return to playing duties in two weeks.

The mens clash was touted as the QBL Game of the Round with two powerhouse teams vying for those all-important inter-pool wins and it lived up to those expectations for the first three quarters.

Only two free throws separated the two teams at the first break with the hosts leading 23 – 21. The Capitals found some rhythm in the second period and some defensive urgency holding the Wizards to just 12 points to take a 6-point half time lead.

At the final break, the Capitals lead was minute, 54 – 52 and the stage was set for a tight finish but someone forgot to tell the Capitals. Their extended pressure in the fourth stifled the Wizards and allowed them only 10 points while exploding for 26 themselves to cruise to the 80 – 62 win.

“That last quarter was pretty good, but we’re not getting ahead of ourselves,” had coach Geoff Tarrant said.

“We have a re-match with these guys next week, they have an import to add and he should be cleared to play so what we saw tonight won’t be what we’ll see next week. What you will see though, is another exciting game,” he concluded.

Ryan Jeffries continued his fine form from last week’s Player of the Week award with 19 points. Dusty Rychart once again added a double-double of 15 points and 13 rebounds and rookie Anthony Kopcikas add 14 points including 3 from long range in the first quarter.

In a game where both teams combined for a total of 61 three-point attempts and a handful of slam dunks, one thing for sure is when these teams play, you will be entertained.

“The Re-Match” is scheduled for next Saturday 8 June at NAB Stadium, Auchenflower. Women tip off at 5:30pm and the Men at 7:30pm.

Secure your corporate box for the night by contacting: qbl@brisbanebasketball.com.au