Spirit returns to Capitals’ territory

THE ladder-leading Bendigo Spirit returns to Canberra for this Saturday’s round 16 match in the Cygnett Women’s National Basketball League season.

Already assured of ending the home-and-away series in first place, Bendigo will be keen to mark a 19th victory as it gears up to host a semi-final.

The Capitals and Spirit match tips off at 3.30pm at AIS Arena.

Canberra could still be in play-offs contention as it takes on Bendigo, but reaching the top four will not be easy.

As Bendigo had a bye last round the Capitals went down to Sydney Flames 86-71 in last Sunday’s match at AIS Arena.

The Flames round out the regular season with home games at Quaycentre against Townsville on Wednesday night and then play Southside Flyers on Saturday.

This season’s matches between Bendigo and Canberra stand at two-nil in favour of Spirit.

In round two, Bendigo won 99-76 at AIS Arena.

Spirit then won 98-78 in the fifth round showdown at Red Energy Arena in West Bendigo.

There have been many keys to the Kennedy Kereama-coached Spirit’s rise to top of the ladder this season.

Major factors include the experience and skill of Paris Olympics bronze medallists Sami Whitcomb and Marianna Tolo.

Add in the defensive energy and attacking prowess of captain Kelsey Griffin, Veronica Burton and Kelly Wilson and Spirit is a formidable squad.

Then there’s the added scoring punch provided by Casey Samuels and Abbey Wehrung.

Bendigo will be wary of a Canberra line-up which has a four-five record at home.

Players to watch in the Capitals squad include Jade Melbourne, Nyadiew Puoch, Nicole Munger, Indiah Bowyer, Monique Bobongie, Charli Collier and Abby Bishop.