United regroup ahead of clash with Flames
GEELONG United will be hoping to regroup quickly and get back on the winners list tomorrow (Saturday, November 30) against the Sydney Flames.
United suffered a 13-point loss (60-73) at the hands of the previously winless UC Capitols last weekend.
Gemma Potter and Haley Jones led well for United, however costly mistakes, shooting struggles and poor defence at times cost the home side.
United was -8 in points in the paint, and -12 for second chance points, with the Capitols dominating both offensive and defensive rebounds.
Jade Melbourne continued her strong form for the Capitols and was a handful for United with her clutch shooting and floor spacing.
United head coach Chris Lucas said he was disappointed with the outcome and to fall to two wins and three losses.
“Second chance points were really the picture of how we played. They were more desperate. They did a super job on the glass.
“We had 16 turnovers too. They were just at the wrong times and were compounding heavily.
“We found it tough, but it’s a credit to Canberra [UC Capitols].”
Tomorrow, United will face a Sydney Flames side who only has the one win for the season.
The Flames are coming off a six-point loss to the Perth Lynx and have lost their last four matchups in a row.
United will need to look out for star duo Shaneice Swain and Cayla George, who are both averaging over 15 points a game.
The Australian Opals forward/center in George is also averaging close to eleven rebounds on the season.
United guard Haley Jones said a trip away interstate this weekend would help to bond the team.
“We are going to come in with a chip this weekend and try get a win on the road.
“The team is really close. We had a fake Thanksgiving last Wednesday, which was really fun.
“We know we didn’t perform at our best [against the Capitols] and also on our last road trip and we are excited to bounce back.”
Geelong United is awaiting a clearance from the Richmond Tigers AFLW team for Monique Conti to begin to train and play with the side.
No formal timeline has been set.
United also has a list spot to fill after Lynette Kizer and the team agreed to part ways last week.
Tomorrow’s matchup with the Flames tips off at 5pm inside the Quaycentre.