Geelong knock off Spirit in final preseason match

GEELONG Venom have rounded out their preseason with a 10-point win over Bendigo Spirit at Warrnambool Stadium on Saturday.

In a tight affair, the Venom pulled away in the final quarter to win 79-69 and take some momentum into their inaugural season in the WNBL.

The Spirit finished the first quarter with a two-point lead before Geelong steadied and took a three-point lead into half time.

Both sides scored 20 points apiece in the third quarter, with Geelong maintaining their three-point lead with one quarter to play. They then started the fourth quarter on an 8-0 run and kept Bendigo at arm’s length for the remainder of the match to secure the victory.

American import duo Mackenzie Holmes and Alissa Pili led the way in their first appearance for the Venom. Holmes scored 20 points on 70% shooting and also added nine rebounds, whilst Pili had 18 points, five rebounds and two steals.

Local guard Gemma Potter, who also played for Geelong United in their recent NBL1 South season, had 10 points and three rebounds.

Abbey Wehrung had 19 points for the Spirit, whilst Marianna Tolo contributed 16 points and four rebounds.

Geelong now turn their attention to their first official hit out in the WNBL when they host the Sydney Flames at Geelong Arena. The match will tip off at 7pm on October 18.