A never-say-die performance by the ACUVUE Sydney University Flames saw them snatch a memorable 95-93 overtime victory over the Townsville Fire in the Women’s National Basketball League clash at SeaFM stadium on Sunday.
After trailing for the entire game, the Flames sank 10 unanswered points in less than two minutes to end the final quarter at 84-all and send the game into overtime.
With Natalie Porter shooting six and Alicia Poto shooting four, the Flames won overtime 11-9 to round off an incredible fight-back.
At one stage during the third term, the Flames trailed by 19 points. But on the back of six three-pointers from the influential Poto, the Flames managed to reduce the margin to just four with four minutes remaining.
Poto, a standout in last week’s game against Christchurch, was inspirational throughout, ending the game with 30 points, eight rebounds, and three assists.
Fellow Opal Porter returned from an ankle injury to post 29 points, with 10 rebounds and seven assists.
Eva Afeaki, Mikaela Dombkins, and Kristen Veal were also key players – Afeaki contributing 12 points and eight rebounds.
The Flames’ dominance around the boards was a decisive factor throughout, as they out-rebounded the Fire 48-36.
The character and fight shown in Townsville will give the Flames confidence when they host the Perth Lynx at the Sydney University Sports and Aquatic Centre this Friday night.
ACUVUE Sydney University Flames 95 (Alicia Poto 30, Natalie Porter 29, Eva Afeaki 12, Kristen Veal 11) d Townsville Fire 93 (Rohanee Cox 28, Jennifer Crouse 19).
