A WINNING streak is a must for Bendigo Spirit to qualify for this season\u2019s play-offs in the Cygnett-backed Women\u2019s National Basketball League season.<\/p>\n
Across the opening seven rounds, Bendigo marked a 3-6 record.<\/p>\n
The year closed out with away matches against Sydney Flames and Bulleen Boomers.<\/p>\n
Reigning champion Townsville Fire awaits a 7 January showdown with Spirit at The Arena in Geelong.<\/p>\n
Bendigo\u2019s first game at The Arena ended in a thrilling 81-77 victory against Adelaide Lightning.<\/p>\n
\u201cEvery match is important in trying to claim a place in the top four,\u201d said Spirit coach Kennedy Kereama.<\/p>\n
Spirit tips off 2024 with a run of home matches.<\/p>\n
After the clash with Townsville on 7 January, Spirit is back at Red Energy Arena in West Bendigo to play Adelaide Lightning on 10 January from 5pm.<\/p>\n
Spirit leads the head-to-head tally, two-nil, from what have been two hard-fought contests.<\/p>\n
Four days later and Bendigo is on the REA showcourt to face UC Capitals from 3.30pm.<\/p>\n
The match with Townsville looms as a huge challenge, but not daunting for a Spirit team which has put in strong performances most matches.<\/p>\n
There is a great history between the clubs who featured in three consecutive WNBL grand finals.<\/p>\n
Bendigo hit back from double-digit deficits in several matches this season, but there\u2019s no points awarded in a loss.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur ability to compete is fantastic,\u201d Kereama said. \u201cThere have been plenty of momentum shifts in matches and as the season has rolled on.\u201d<\/p>\n
A talented Spirit squad is led by Kelsey Griffin, a four-time WNBL champion which includes Bendigo\u2019s triumphs in 2012-13 and 2013-14.<\/p>\n
WNBL games record-holder Kelly Wilson is still racking up the assists and points.<\/p>\n
Mehryn Kraker, Alicia Froling and Abbey Wehrung will all play crucial roles in Spirit\u2019s charge to grab a top-four berth.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
A WINNING streak is a must for Bendigo Spirit to qualify for this season\u2019s play-offs in the Cygnett-backed Women\u2019s National Basketball League season. Across the opening seven rounds, Bendigo marked a 3-6 record. The year closed out with away matches against Sydney Flames and Bulleen Boomers. Reigning champion Townsville Fire awaits a 7 January showdown […]<\/p>\n