Division 1 Women's Match Report
KESTRELS WIN DEFENSIVE BATTLE IN THE CAPITAL
The lowest scoring match in last weekend’s WNBL Division 1 was won by the travelling, Team Solent Kestrels, on the road to London-based, Southwark Pride. Southwark were characteristically young and athletic, but their inexperience showed against a more mature Kestrels side.
Kestrels jumped to a quick lead after ten unanswered points, with the visiting team punishing Southwark’s interior defence. After a relatively quiet game last week, German national, Andrea Kurkowski, showed her versatility, getting to the foul-line, creating off the dribble and hitting open jump shots. At the other end, the Kestrels defence forced Southwark to play deep into the shot clock, forcing the home team into several empty possessions. Southwark finally got going mid-way into the quarter, but were held to 7-points, whilst Kestrels’ early form seemed to wain. The first period ended 7-12.
The second quarter was a much tighter affair with neither team able to create a foothold at the offensive end. Whilst the Kestrels dominated at the defensive end, forcing Southwark in errors in transition and the half-court, offensive production was poor. Kurkowski added another basket to her 17-points game high, but the only other Kestrels to score were Cox from the inside, and a 3-bomb from Krissy Karpova. Southwark also only managed to get three players on the score sheet and in an uncharacteristically low-scoring affair for both teams. Kestrels went into the half with a 13-19 lead.
In a game where offensive rhythm and efficiency was sorely lacking, the Kestrels continued to commit at the defensive end. Despite this, TKS failed to turn this pressure into easy offensive, settling mostly to play in the half-court. Kestrel’s Captain, Krisztina Velkey, made a couple of nice decisions to score 4-points in the third, in a quarter that saw five Kestrels get on the scoresheet. By the end of the period, TSK had extended their lead by a further 8-points, going into the final quarter, 19-33.
The final quarter saw a brief offensive spark from the Kestrels, who moved the ball with impunity against Southwark’s athletic zone defence. Collectively the Kestrels scored 15 further points, whilst holding the London team to just one field goal and two trips to the line. Kurkowski finished with a further 6-points to add her tally, ensuring that the Kestrels could at least secure a useful win, 23-48.
After the game Coach Lee commented “I’m really happy with our defensive efficiency, and commitment today. Southwark are young and inexperienced, but they were aggressive and athletic, and we did a great job forcing them to play deep into shot clock. Offensively we didn’t read the game well at all, so we have some work to do in readiness for next week and the rest of the season.”
Game leaders:-
Team Solent Kestrels: A. Kurkowski 17, E. Jackson 8, K.Velkey & J. Jerram 6
Southwark Pride: A. Sandie 6, V. Natufe 4
Kestrels jumped to a quick lead after ten unanswered points, with the visiting team punishing Southwark’s interior defence. After a relatively quiet game last week, German national, Andrea Kurkowski, showed her versatility, getting to the foul-line, creating off the dribble and hitting open jump shots. At the other end, the Kestrels defence forced Southwark to play deep into the shot clock, forcing the home team into several empty possessions. Southwark finally got going mid-way into the quarter, but were held to 7-points, whilst Kestrels’ early form seemed to wain. The first period ended 7-12.
The second quarter was a much tighter affair with neither team able to create a foothold at the offensive end. Whilst the Kestrels dominated at the defensive end, forcing Southwark in errors in transition and the half-court, offensive production was poor. Kurkowski added another basket to her 17-points game high, but the only other Kestrels to score were Cox from the inside, and a 3-bomb from Krissy Karpova. Southwark also only managed to get three players on the score sheet and in an uncharacteristically low-scoring affair for both teams. Kestrels went into the half with a 13-19 lead.
In a game where offensive rhythm and efficiency was sorely lacking, the Kestrels continued to commit at the defensive end. Despite this, TKS failed to turn this pressure into easy offensive, settling mostly to play in the half-court. Kestrel’s Captain, Krisztina Velkey, made a couple of nice decisions to score 4-points in the third, in a quarter that saw five Kestrels get on the scoresheet. By the end of the period, TSK had extended their lead by a further 8-points, going into the final quarter, 19-33.
The final quarter saw a brief offensive spark from the Kestrels, who moved the ball with impunity against Southwark’s athletic zone defence. Collectively the Kestrels scored 15 further points, whilst holding the London team to just one field goal and two trips to the line. Kurkowski finished with a further 6-points to add her tally, ensuring that the Kestrels could at least secure a useful win, 23-48.
After the game Coach Lee commented “I’m really happy with our defensive efficiency, and commitment today. Southwark are young and inexperienced, but they were aggressive and athletic, and we did a great job forcing them to play deep into shot clock. Offensively we didn’t read the game well at all, so we have some work to do in readiness for next week and the rest of the season.”
Game leaders:-
Team Solent Kestrels: A. Kurkowski 17, E. Jackson 8, K.Velkey & J. Jerram 6
Southwark Pride: A. Sandie 6, V. Natufe 4
WINNING START FOR KESTRELS AS THEY GROUND ROCKETS
Team Solent Kestrels clinched their first road win against longtime rivals, Reading Rockets 60-65 on Sunday afternoon, in their season opener.
A youthful reading were coming off a comprehensive performance in last week’s season opener, having beaten Barking Abbey the week before, but would face a much different test against a resurgent TSK. Having brought back a strong nucleus from last season, TSK added to their ranks with Canadian Forward, Rebecca Cox, and Italian forward, Martina Mannozzi, both of whom were promoted from last year’s second team.
The early pace was frantic with both teams scoring early. Kestrels Centre, Earla Jackson, opened up TSK’s account with a lay-up, but Reading responded in kind by Reading’s Espinosa. Both teams sized each other up during the first period, but a number missed opportunities gave Reading a slight advantage, who closed the quarter 15-11.
In the second quarter both teams made adjustments at the defensive end, but it was the Kestrels who made the most of their experience. Melonie Dell came out firing, getting to the line early and scoring all eight of her points in the quarter.
TSK’s Captain, Krisztina Velkey went on a tear, scoring nine of her game high 17-points to put the Kestrels back in the driving seat. The Kestrels’ defence restricted Reading to just 12-points, to take a 27-33 lead in the half.
The third quarter was a cagey affair, with neither team able to establish a prolonged rhythm. Nevertheless, TSK had few answers to limit Reading’s Captain, Núnez, who scored six of her 13-point total for the game in the quarter. Both defenses demonstrated what will keep these two team competitive throughout the season with neither team giving up anything easy and forcing each other to take last second shot attempts. TSK won the quarter 8-12, to take a 10-point lead into the final stanza.
Just as it looked like Reading had no answers to TSK’s defensive scheme, a number of careless possessions by the visiting team opened the door to Reading. Reading’s leading scorer, Espinosa, who finished the game with 19-points, punished the Kestrel’s indecisive play, pouring in 13 points in a quarter dominated by the home team. Nevertheless, TSK regrouped with the TSK forwards dominated inside. The pairing of Mannozzi and Cox scored 6-points a piece, whilst TSK Floor General, Jodi Jerram, hit two 3-point bombs to settle the ship and close out the quarter.
After the game, Coach Lee, was in a typically philosophical mood, “This was a great first test for us and we have to thank our second team for providing a useful wake-up call the previous week. Reading is a really tough young team who will no doubt improve as the season goes on. For us, I’m please to leave with a win, but what’s more important is what we will learn from today’s game. ”
Game leaders:-
Reading Rockets: Gines Espinosa S., 19; Hemida Núnez, C. (Capt) 13
Team Solent Kestrels: K.Velkey 17, E. Jackson 10 , M. Dell 8
A youthful reading were coming off a comprehensive performance in last week’s season opener, having beaten Barking Abbey the week before, but would face a much different test against a resurgent TSK. Having brought back a strong nucleus from last season, TSK added to their ranks with Canadian Forward, Rebecca Cox, and Italian forward, Martina Mannozzi, both of whom were promoted from last year’s second team.
The early pace was frantic with both teams scoring early. Kestrels Centre, Earla Jackson, opened up TSK’s account with a lay-up, but Reading responded in kind by Reading’s Espinosa. Both teams sized each other up during the first period, but a number missed opportunities gave Reading a slight advantage, who closed the quarter 15-11.
In the second quarter both teams made adjustments at the defensive end, but it was the Kestrels who made the most of their experience. Melonie Dell came out firing, getting to the line early and scoring all eight of her points in the quarter.
TSK’s Captain, Krisztina Velkey went on a tear, scoring nine of her game high 17-points to put the Kestrels back in the driving seat. The Kestrels’ defence restricted Reading to just 12-points, to take a 27-33 lead in the half.
The third quarter was a cagey affair, with neither team able to establish a prolonged rhythm. Nevertheless, TSK had few answers to limit Reading’s Captain, Núnez, who scored six of her 13-point total for the game in the quarter. Both defenses demonstrated what will keep these two team competitive throughout the season with neither team giving up anything easy and forcing each other to take last second shot attempts. TSK won the quarter 8-12, to take a 10-point lead into the final stanza.
Just as it looked like Reading had no answers to TSK’s defensive scheme, a number of careless possessions by the visiting team opened the door to Reading. Reading’s leading scorer, Espinosa, who finished the game with 19-points, punished the Kestrel’s indecisive play, pouring in 13 points in a quarter dominated by the home team. Nevertheless, TSK regrouped with the TSK forwards dominated inside. The pairing of Mannozzi and Cox scored 6-points a piece, whilst TSK Floor General, Jodi Jerram, hit two 3-point bombs to settle the ship and close out the quarter.
After the game, Coach Lee, was in a typically philosophical mood, “This was a great first test for us and we have to thank our second team for providing a useful wake-up call the previous week. Reading is a really tough young team who will no doubt improve as the season goes on. For us, I’m please to leave with a win, but what’s more important is what we will learn from today’s game. ”
Game leaders:-
Reading Rockets: Gines Espinosa S., 19; Hemida Núnez, C. (Capt) 13
Team Solent Kestrels: K.Velkey 17, E. Jackson 10 , M. Dell 8
SEMI FINAL HEART BREAK FOR TSK AS THEY CRASH OUT OF PLAYOFFS
Image Courtesy | Luke Simcock
After a commanding performance in the quarterfinal and a solid week's preparation, TSK hit the road to face Cambridge-based Anglia Ruskin University (ARU). The semifinal would see 2nd seeded ARU try to take the final spot in the playoff finals, after losing to TSK a few weeks prior.
The game was played in front of a partisan crowd who created a great atmosphere throughout the game. Match-ups would be key in this head-to-head and it was ARU's season leader, Nadege Talva who opened the account for the home team, scoring four early points. TSK's scoring leader, Geena Gomez responded with a jump-shot from midrange. As the game turned into a heavyweight boxing match, shot attempts glanced the rim and passes and drives were parried and blocked by opposition defence. However, it was Italian guard, Zaffroni who would break the tie, coming off the bench to score 7-first quarter points and give ARU a 7-point lead going into the 2nd period, 24-17.
TSK hit back first in the second period, with Captain, Earleesha Jackson, attacking the basket and getting fouled in the process, converting both free-throws from the charity stripe. Then TSK's sharp shooting Estonian hit-woman, Kristina Karpova, hit a three-ball to bring the score within three. Once again the two teams began trading baskets, but it was consecutive baskets from veteran, Stevie Ellis, that gave TSK their first lead of the contest (34-32) midway through the period. But it was ARU that finished the quarter strongest, with Zaffaroni hitting two consecutive jump-shots to end the half with a narrow 3-point lead, 42-39.
Despite the two and fro nature of the first half, the third quarter saw ARU go on the offensive, whilst TSK looked bewildered and lacking energy. The quarter seemed to be following the script in the early stages with both teams trading early offensive bombs. However, after roughly two-minutes of play ARU would go on a 17-3 run, during which TSK turned over the ball and struggled to create quality possessions. All three of TSK's points came from the free-throw line. After ARU's Hulme made a lay-up from a nice piece of one-on-one skill, the home team had amassed a 19-point lead. A late fight-back in the closing minutes reduced the deficit to 14, before ARU's No.5, Gonzalez Palacios, hit a timely 3-point bomb to end the quarter, 67-50.
TSK regained their fighting spirit in the fourth and would get within 8-points with 4:43 remaining. However, ARU held their nerve and systematically made key plays, stretching their lead to 16, before closing out the quarter with a 10-point cushion. Final score, 86-76.
After 1st-seeded, Bristol Flyers, fell to 5th seed, Reading Rockets, earlier in the day, ARU would make it their second successive trip to the Playoff Finals.
After the game Coach Lee remarked “Despite a great week of preparation and a season of trials and triumphs that should have prepared us for this type of game, we simply lacked the urgency required to compete for four quarters of basketball at this level and stage of the competition. ARU came out in the third with more energy and we failed to make adjustments in time to make it count. We gave good account of ourselves to close-out the game, but now we'll lick our wounds, reflect on where we all need to be better, say goodbye to some of our team and come back fighting next season.”
Game leaders:-
Team Solent Kestrels: G. Gomez 20, Kurkowski 13, K. Karpova 13
ARU: I. Zaffaroni 19, K. Hulme 17, S. Koutsourelaki 11
The game was played in front of a partisan crowd who created a great atmosphere throughout the game. Match-ups would be key in this head-to-head and it was ARU's season leader, Nadege Talva who opened the account for the home team, scoring four early points. TSK's scoring leader, Geena Gomez responded with a jump-shot from midrange. As the game turned into a heavyweight boxing match, shot attempts glanced the rim and passes and drives were parried and blocked by opposition defence. However, it was Italian guard, Zaffroni who would break the tie, coming off the bench to score 7-first quarter points and give ARU a 7-point lead going into the 2nd period, 24-17.
TSK hit back first in the second period, with Captain, Earleesha Jackson, attacking the basket and getting fouled in the process, converting both free-throws from the charity stripe. Then TSK's sharp shooting Estonian hit-woman, Kristina Karpova, hit a three-ball to bring the score within three. Once again the two teams began trading baskets, but it was consecutive baskets from veteran, Stevie Ellis, that gave TSK their first lead of the contest (34-32) midway through the period. But it was ARU that finished the quarter strongest, with Zaffaroni hitting two consecutive jump-shots to end the half with a narrow 3-point lead, 42-39.
Despite the two and fro nature of the first half, the third quarter saw ARU go on the offensive, whilst TSK looked bewildered and lacking energy. The quarter seemed to be following the script in the early stages with both teams trading early offensive bombs. However, after roughly two-minutes of play ARU would go on a 17-3 run, during which TSK turned over the ball and struggled to create quality possessions. All three of TSK's points came from the free-throw line. After ARU's Hulme made a lay-up from a nice piece of one-on-one skill, the home team had amassed a 19-point lead. A late fight-back in the closing minutes reduced the deficit to 14, before ARU's No.5, Gonzalez Palacios, hit a timely 3-point bomb to end the quarter, 67-50.
TSK regained their fighting spirit in the fourth and would get within 8-points with 4:43 remaining. However, ARU held their nerve and systematically made key plays, stretching their lead to 16, before closing out the quarter with a 10-point cushion. Final score, 86-76.
After 1st-seeded, Bristol Flyers, fell to 5th seed, Reading Rockets, earlier in the day, ARU would make it their second successive trip to the Playoff Finals.
After the game Coach Lee remarked “Despite a great week of preparation and a season of trials and triumphs that should have prepared us for this type of game, we simply lacked the urgency required to compete for four quarters of basketball at this level and stage of the competition. ARU came out in the third with more energy and we failed to make adjustments in time to make it count. We gave good account of ourselves to close-out the game, but now we'll lick our wounds, reflect on where we all need to be better, say goodbye to some of our team and come back fighting next season.”
Game leaders:-
Team Solent Kestrels: G. Gomez 20, Kurkowski 13, K. Karpova 13
ARU: I. Zaffaroni 19, K. Hulme 17, S. Koutsourelaki 11
KESTRELS AVENGE REGULAR SEASON LOSSES WITH QUARTER FINAL WIN
Whilst TSK had the stronger seeding going into the quarterfinal match-up with Ipswich, Ipswich were one of only two teams to take both regular season games against third placed TSK. The home team were keen to learn from previous performances and would need to put on a stellar performance to overcome one of the league’s strongest backcourt duos in the form of Harriet Welham and Esther Little.
The game started well with Chiara Di Stefano scoring from mid range, followed by a 3-point bomb from Geena Gomez. Ipswich responded with a lay-up from Welham, before TSK exploded with a 10-2 run. The starters were assisted by contributions from Sonia Awour and Kristina Karpova, to close out the first period. Welham, Little and Taylor-Willis all made baskets for Ipswich, but it was TSK who would finish the quarter strong, 31-15 ahead.
Ipswich’s offence got going in the second quarter paced by the trio of Welham, Little and Redhead. A 6-2 run got the visitors back into rhythm before Awour and Di Stefano hit consecutive baskets. Ipswich stayed in the game thanks to the play of Welham who attacked from the inside. Meanwhile, Taylor-Willis kept TSK’s honest from the perimeter. Nevertheless, TSK maintained a 13-point advantage at the break, leading the game 50-37.
The third quarter did not disappoint as both teams stepped up intensity at both ends. Ipswich continued to pressure in the full court, turning TSK over a couple of times. However, Ipswich could not find a way to stop TSK’s balanced attack. Kristina Velkey who was just one rebound short of a double-double in addition to 7-assists, plagued the Ipswich defence with her penetration, mid-range and long-range game. Andrea Kurkowski, who would finish the game with 17-points and 7-rebounds created several match-up problems for the visitors. TSK closed out the quarter with basket’s from Sneddon and Kurkowski to take a 19-point lead into the last stanza.
Taylor-Willis was not done in the fourth, hitting big shots from the outside in an attempt to limit the damage, but in spite of her heroics, the inside pairing of Kurkowski and Jackson kept TSK’s offence rolling. Defensively the home team contested shots and deflected passes, creating some fast break opportunities mid-way through the quarter. Whilst Ipswich were able to close the gap to 18-points in the half, this was closest they would get to upsetting a home victory. The game ended 89-70, which sees TSK progress to the next round and a semi-final match-up away to 2nd seed, Anglia Ruskin University.
After the game Coach Lee remarked; “This was without a doubt our most complete performance this season. We’re playing our best basketball at the right time of the year and we plan to sustain that kind of discipline through the next two games. Needless to say Anglia will be a tough opponent next week. They have playoff experience and know how to battle from behind, so we take nothing for granted.”
Game leaders:-
Team Solent Kestrels: Geena Gomez 20, Andrea Kurkowski 17, Earleesha Jackon 15
Ipswich: Harriet Welham 25, Cameron Taylor-Willis 17, Charlotte Redhead 12
The game started well with Chiara Di Stefano scoring from mid range, followed by a 3-point bomb from Geena Gomez. Ipswich responded with a lay-up from Welham, before TSK exploded with a 10-2 run. The starters were assisted by contributions from Sonia Awour and Kristina Karpova, to close out the first period. Welham, Little and Taylor-Willis all made baskets for Ipswich, but it was TSK who would finish the quarter strong, 31-15 ahead.
Ipswich’s offence got going in the second quarter paced by the trio of Welham, Little and Redhead. A 6-2 run got the visitors back into rhythm before Awour and Di Stefano hit consecutive baskets. Ipswich stayed in the game thanks to the play of Welham who attacked from the inside. Meanwhile, Taylor-Willis kept TSK’s honest from the perimeter. Nevertheless, TSK maintained a 13-point advantage at the break, leading the game 50-37.
The third quarter did not disappoint as both teams stepped up intensity at both ends. Ipswich continued to pressure in the full court, turning TSK over a couple of times. However, Ipswich could not find a way to stop TSK’s balanced attack. Kristina Velkey who was just one rebound short of a double-double in addition to 7-assists, plagued the Ipswich defence with her penetration, mid-range and long-range game. Andrea Kurkowski, who would finish the game with 17-points and 7-rebounds created several match-up problems for the visitors. TSK closed out the quarter with basket’s from Sneddon and Kurkowski to take a 19-point lead into the last stanza.
Taylor-Willis was not done in the fourth, hitting big shots from the outside in an attempt to limit the damage, but in spite of her heroics, the inside pairing of Kurkowski and Jackson kept TSK’s offence rolling. Defensively the home team contested shots and deflected passes, creating some fast break opportunities mid-way through the quarter. Whilst Ipswich were able to close the gap to 18-points in the half, this was closest they would get to upsetting a home victory. The game ended 89-70, which sees TSK progress to the next round and a semi-final match-up away to 2nd seed, Anglia Ruskin University.
After the game Coach Lee remarked; “This was without a doubt our most complete performance this season. We’re playing our best basketball at the right time of the year and we plan to sustain that kind of discipline through the next two games. Needless to say Anglia will be a tough opponent next week. They have playoff experience and know how to battle from behind, so we take nothing for granted.”
Game leaders:-
Team Solent Kestrels: Geena Gomez 20, Andrea Kurkowski 17, Earleesha Jackon 15
Ipswich: Harriet Welham 25, Cameron Taylor-Willis 17, Charlotte Redhead 12
TSK PICK UP WIN ON THE ROAD IN THE CAPITAL
Image Courtesy | Luke Simcock
Team Solent Kestrels were back on the road after a three game home stretch. Southwark’s youthful and indomitable challenge kept the game close at the end, but a solid early performance meant that TSK were always in the driving seat.
The starting five saw the return to a familiar line-up with Gomez supported in the back-court by Krisztina Velkey and Solent University student, Chiara Di Stefano. The game stated with both teams trading baskets. Kurkowski got Solent’s tally off the mark with a lay-up before the Pride responded quickly in transition. Gomez got going early scoring eight first-quarter points. Senior player, Watkins helped to stem any serious deficits for Southwark with two baskets in succession, to take a 14-12 lead with a couple of minutes to go, yet despite some turnovers by TSK baskets from Cante and Eliis gave Solent a 2-point lead at the end of the first, 14-16.
The second quarter would prove to be decisive. Jodi Jerram came out rejuvenated, hitting four 3-pointers in succession, which sparked a 16-0 run. Southwark tried to respond through Sandie, who got to the line and made one from two. However, Solent’s defensive effort restricted the London side to just 7-points, whilst Solent scored 21. TSK went into the half with a solid 16-point buffer.
TSK remained solid in the third with despite some resistance from the Pride’s defence. Once again TSK’s bench showed up at both ends, with Elosie Sneddon scoring successive three’s to extend the lead to 20-points. Gomez continued her good shooting form, burying points from the foul line and the perimeter. A blanched attack of inside-outside ball, put pressure on Southwark’s defence, whilst thy struggled to find any consistent rhythm on offence. TSK would outscore the home team by a further 7-points, stretching the lead to as much as 25-points and finishing the quarter 31-54 ahead.
However, TSK’s offensive production disappeared in a final quarter, which would see them put only 9-points on the board. Conversely, seemingly with nothing to lose, Southwark mounted an all out defensive assault which put Solent on the back foot and would all but distinguish their advantage. Whilst Southwark finished the game stronger, it was too little too late and TSK sealed an important road-win, 53-63.
After the game Coach Lee commented “Again we’ve dropped the ball in a big second half, which could prove pivotal with the proximity of the top 3 teams who are still battling for the top spot in the play-off seedings.”
Game Leaders:-
Team Solent Kestrels: G. Gomez 19, J. Jerram 12, A. Kurkowski & E. Jackson 7
Southwark Pride: A. Sandie 12, M. Haines 10, K. E. Oluade & A. Watkins 8
The starting five saw the return to a familiar line-up with Gomez supported in the back-court by Krisztina Velkey and Solent University student, Chiara Di Stefano. The game stated with both teams trading baskets. Kurkowski got Solent’s tally off the mark with a lay-up before the Pride responded quickly in transition. Gomez got going early scoring eight first-quarter points. Senior player, Watkins helped to stem any serious deficits for Southwark with two baskets in succession, to take a 14-12 lead with a couple of minutes to go, yet despite some turnovers by TSK baskets from Cante and Eliis gave Solent a 2-point lead at the end of the first, 14-16.
The second quarter would prove to be decisive. Jodi Jerram came out rejuvenated, hitting four 3-pointers in succession, which sparked a 16-0 run. Southwark tried to respond through Sandie, who got to the line and made one from two. However, Solent’s defensive effort restricted the London side to just 7-points, whilst Solent scored 21. TSK went into the half with a solid 16-point buffer.
TSK remained solid in the third with despite some resistance from the Pride’s defence. Once again TSK’s bench showed up at both ends, with Elosie Sneddon scoring successive three’s to extend the lead to 20-points. Gomez continued her good shooting form, burying points from the foul line and the perimeter. A blanched attack of inside-outside ball, put pressure on Southwark’s defence, whilst thy struggled to find any consistent rhythm on offence. TSK would outscore the home team by a further 7-points, stretching the lead to as much as 25-points and finishing the quarter 31-54 ahead.
However, TSK’s offensive production disappeared in a final quarter, which would see them put only 9-points on the board. Conversely, seemingly with nothing to lose, Southwark mounted an all out defensive assault which put Solent on the back foot and would all but distinguish their advantage. Whilst Southwark finished the game stronger, it was too little too late and TSK sealed an important road-win, 53-63.
After the game Coach Lee commented “Again we’ve dropped the ball in a big second half, which could prove pivotal with the proximity of the top 3 teams who are still battling for the top spot in the play-off seedings.”
Game Leaders:-
Team Solent Kestrels: G. Gomez 19, J. Jerram 12, A. Kurkowski & E. Jackson 7
Southwark Pride: A. Sandie 12, M. Haines 10, K. E. Oluade & A. Watkins 8
KESTRELS UNABLE TO GET OVER THE LINE AGAINST LEAGUE LEADERS
Image Courtesy | Luke Simcock
In the second of two games this past weekend, second place TSK took on league leaders, Bristol Flyers. Flyers have the best record in the league having only dropped two games all season. TSK were 9 and 3 going into the contest, having beaten second place Anglia Ruskin the day before. Flyers were also involved the previous day, having had a close one against bottom of the table, Reading Rockets.
The first quarter got off to a quick start with Bristol taking the first lead of the game with an uncontested drive to the basket from Hannah Wallace. Krissy Karpova, who got her second start of the weekend, answered back with a 3-point shot, followed by a two from Gomez. Veteran Flyer guard Liisa Juul attacked the basket, which sparked a back and forth exchange between the two best teams in the league. TSK’s Andrea Kurkowski made her presence felt on the inside, scoring 9-points in the quarter, with great support from the bench in the shape of Sonia Otieno and Jodi Jerram. The first quarter ended with TSK taking a small lead, 24-21.
TSK hit first in the second through Cante and Otieno, before Flyers replied with a strong move to the basket from Centini McDonald. Flyers leading scorer, Cristina Bigica, would get things going early, getting to the foul line on consecutive trips and proving deadly accurate from the stripe. Not to be outdone, TSK season points leader, Gomez, got into the action getting to the line and making shots from the perimeter and midrange. However, the two teams could not create any real separation, and TSK took a 4-point lead going into the second half, 46-42.
The third-quarter looked reminiscent of a heavy weight boxing match with neither team able to make any real ground. However, whilst TSK would hold Bristol to just 12-points in the quarter, an uninspired offensive performance left the Solent team with just 6-points. Captain, Earleesha Jackson scored all 6-points for TSK in a quarter marred by indecisiveness, turnovers and missed opportunities. The quarter ended 52-54 to leave both teams with everything to play for in the final quarter.
Bristol entered the fourth with the greater sense of urgency and initiative in the fourth. Wallace attacked the hoop on consecutive trips with no help in sight from the TSK defence. Gomez got to the line and buried both , followed by Karpova hitting a mid-range jumper to bring the teams within two. However, TSK couldn’t grab a lead as Cristina Bigica hit 4-points in succession. Gomez score two-consecutive baskets to bring the game with two for the second time. The home crowd were on their feet, willing TSK to find a way through, but a late foul against the home team, followed by technical free-throw, put pay and any opportunity for a last minute reprieve. Bristol Flyers closed out the game and left winners, 66-72.
After the game a frustrated Coach Lee said “I’d hoped we had learnt from the previous day that its tough to win games just from the perimeter. Our offence became stilted in the third as we failed to move the ball and attack the paint. It’s frustrating to give away a game on our home-court, particularly as Bristol will be hard to catch in the race for League title honours.”
Game leaders:-
Team Solent Kestrels: G. Gomez 20, A. Kurkowski 13, K. Karpova 11
Bristol Flyers: C. Bigica 18, H. Wallce 17, L. Juul 10
The first quarter got off to a quick start with Bristol taking the first lead of the game with an uncontested drive to the basket from Hannah Wallace. Krissy Karpova, who got her second start of the weekend, answered back with a 3-point shot, followed by a two from Gomez. Veteran Flyer guard Liisa Juul attacked the basket, which sparked a back and forth exchange between the two best teams in the league. TSK’s Andrea Kurkowski made her presence felt on the inside, scoring 9-points in the quarter, with great support from the bench in the shape of Sonia Otieno and Jodi Jerram. The first quarter ended with TSK taking a small lead, 24-21.
TSK hit first in the second through Cante and Otieno, before Flyers replied with a strong move to the basket from Centini McDonald. Flyers leading scorer, Cristina Bigica, would get things going early, getting to the foul line on consecutive trips and proving deadly accurate from the stripe. Not to be outdone, TSK season points leader, Gomez, got into the action getting to the line and making shots from the perimeter and midrange. However, the two teams could not create any real separation, and TSK took a 4-point lead going into the second half, 46-42.
The third-quarter looked reminiscent of a heavy weight boxing match with neither team able to make any real ground. However, whilst TSK would hold Bristol to just 12-points in the quarter, an uninspired offensive performance left the Solent team with just 6-points. Captain, Earleesha Jackson scored all 6-points for TSK in a quarter marred by indecisiveness, turnovers and missed opportunities. The quarter ended 52-54 to leave both teams with everything to play for in the final quarter.
Bristol entered the fourth with the greater sense of urgency and initiative in the fourth. Wallace attacked the hoop on consecutive trips with no help in sight from the TSK defence. Gomez got to the line and buried both , followed by Karpova hitting a mid-range jumper to bring the teams within two. However, TSK couldn’t grab a lead as Cristina Bigica hit 4-points in succession. Gomez score two-consecutive baskets to bring the game with two for the second time. The home crowd were on their feet, willing TSK to find a way through, but a late foul against the home team, followed by technical free-throw, put pay and any opportunity for a last minute reprieve. Bristol Flyers closed out the game and left winners, 66-72.
After the game a frustrated Coach Lee said “I’d hoped we had learnt from the previous day that its tough to win games just from the perimeter. Our offence became stilted in the third as we failed to move the ball and attack the paint. It’s frustrating to give away a game on our home-court, particularly as Bristol will be hard to catch in the race for League title honours.”
Game leaders:-
Team Solent Kestrels: G. Gomez 20, A. Kurkowski 13, K. Karpova 11
Bristol Flyers: C. Bigica 18, H. Wallce 17, L. Juul 10
TSK HOLD OFF LATE CHARGE FROM ANGLIA RUSKIN
Image Courtesy | Luke Simcock
Team Solent Kestrels faced a tough challenge this weekend facing-off with no. 2 placed team, Anglia Ruskin on Saturday 16th February, followed by no. 1 placed team, Bristol Academy Flyers, the following day.
Saturday’s game started with both teams coming out of the gates quickly. Anglia have had both a coaching change and new players to the roster, and it was new Italian guard, Zaffroni who got off to the hot start, firing a three from the outside. TSK’s starting duo of Gomez and Cante first levelled and then then took the early lead. However, both teams settled into a fairly untidy quarter, with both teams struggling to find any consistent offensive rhythm. Both Zaffroni (11-points) and Gomez (13-points) put in solid performances at the offensive end, which left the teams level at the end of the first, 15-15.
Anglia came out with the greater sense of purpose in the second period, going on a 2-12 run and opening up a 10-point lead. TSK got their outside game going with 3-point bombs first from Jodi Jerram, then Krissy Karpova. TSK would eventually claw back the score, reducing the deficit to just 3-points with 1.17 to go, before committing a foul, sending Anlia’s third top scorer, Hulme to the line. Hulme would sink both before hitting another 3-point shot, extending their lead to 4-points and ending the first half, 35-39.
TSK regrouped during the break and seemingly supercharged their defensive effort. Gomez got things going with a 3-point bomb to start the quarter, followed a quick lay-up to the hoop. Kurkowski got fouled at the line, making both. Gomez and Ellis worked together togged another 4-points before Anglia’s Zaffroni scored their only basket of the quarter at the 4:35 mark. Gomez would pace all scorers with 14-points in the period, whilst Ellis scored 5-points, an rebound, an assist and a block for a rounded contributed to TSK’s 24-point effort. The quarter ended with TSK leading, 60-41.
In a seemingly bizarre reversal of fate, it was TSK who struggled to find the basket in the final stanza of the game. TSK would be scoreless for the 4-minutes, breaking their seal on the basket through a Karpova jump-shot. Moments later TSK’s Captain, Earleesha Jackson would score again, but no other TSK player would find the hoop for the remainder of the contest. In the meantime, Anglia regained their confidence and composure, pouring in 21-points for the quarter. Fortunately for the hometown fans, Anglia’s ate charge wasn’t enough to extinguish the home’s team’s advantage and the game would finish with TSK leading by 3-points, 64-61.
After the game Coach Lee remarked “The fourth quarter was a bizarre turn in an otherwise competent performance. We know this is an issue for our team and we will continue to work on our momentum and decision-making when other teams make the second half adjustments. However, tomorrow we have to get straight back to it, as we expect a tough contest against the league leaders, Bristol”
Game leaders:-
Team Solent Kestrels: G. Gomez 29, S. Ellis 10, K. Karpova 8
Anglia Ruskin: L. Zaffroni 20, N. Talva 13, K. Hulme 12
Saturday’s game started with both teams coming out of the gates quickly. Anglia have had both a coaching change and new players to the roster, and it was new Italian guard, Zaffroni who got off to the hot start, firing a three from the outside. TSK’s starting duo of Gomez and Cante first levelled and then then took the early lead. However, both teams settled into a fairly untidy quarter, with both teams struggling to find any consistent offensive rhythm. Both Zaffroni (11-points) and Gomez (13-points) put in solid performances at the offensive end, which left the teams level at the end of the first, 15-15.
Anglia came out with the greater sense of purpose in the second period, going on a 2-12 run and opening up a 10-point lead. TSK got their outside game going with 3-point bombs first from Jodi Jerram, then Krissy Karpova. TSK would eventually claw back the score, reducing the deficit to just 3-points with 1.17 to go, before committing a foul, sending Anlia’s third top scorer, Hulme to the line. Hulme would sink both before hitting another 3-point shot, extending their lead to 4-points and ending the first half, 35-39.
TSK regrouped during the break and seemingly supercharged their defensive effort. Gomez got things going with a 3-point bomb to start the quarter, followed a quick lay-up to the hoop. Kurkowski got fouled at the line, making both. Gomez and Ellis worked together togged another 4-points before Anglia’s Zaffroni scored their only basket of the quarter at the 4:35 mark. Gomez would pace all scorers with 14-points in the period, whilst Ellis scored 5-points, an rebound, an assist and a block for a rounded contributed to TSK’s 24-point effort. The quarter ended with TSK leading, 60-41.
In a seemingly bizarre reversal of fate, it was TSK who struggled to find the basket in the final stanza of the game. TSK would be scoreless for the 4-minutes, breaking their seal on the basket through a Karpova jump-shot. Moments later TSK’s Captain, Earleesha Jackson would score again, but no other TSK player would find the hoop for the remainder of the contest. In the meantime, Anglia regained their confidence and composure, pouring in 21-points for the quarter. Fortunately for the hometown fans, Anglia’s ate charge wasn’t enough to extinguish the home’s team’s advantage and the game would finish with TSK leading by 3-points, 64-61.
After the game Coach Lee remarked “The fourth quarter was a bizarre turn in an otherwise competent performance. We know this is an issue for our team and we will continue to work on our momentum and decision-making when other teams make the second half adjustments. However, tomorrow we have to get straight back to it, as we expect a tough contest against the league leaders, Bristol”
Game leaders:-
Team Solent Kestrels: G. Gomez 29, S. Ellis 10, K. Karpova 8
Anglia Ruskin: L. Zaffroni 20, N. Talva 13, K. Hulme 12
KESTRELS GROUND ROCKETS LATE TO SECURE IMPORTANT WIN
Image Courtesy | Luke Simcock
In the historic local rivalry between Team Solent Kestrels and Reading Rockets, TSK secured the first of two meetings between the teams. Having postponed the initial match-ups in November and January, TSK finally got a chance to measure themselves against the National Cup Runners-up.
TSK stated their intentions early, establishing an early 10-6 lead midway through the first quarter. TSK first attacked on the inside with buckets from a below par [sick] Kurkowski and very efficient Jackson. Reading responded by attacking the paint through Noa Sanchez Marques and Reveron Herranz De Antonio. However, it was a composed TSK performance that would mark the first quarter, who’s defensive efforts held the Rockets scoreless for the last three-minutes of the period and securing a 7-point lead, 19-12.
Whilst the Kestrels defensive pressure on the Rockets kept the Reading side at bay for much of the second period, it was the Rockets who took the initiative going into the half-time break. The Kestrels would see offensive production from a combination of Gomez and Velkey from the outside, supported by Kurkowski and Jackson in the paint. However, the Rockets would win the quarter, scoring 23-points and pulling within 2-points by the half, 37-35.
Reading struck first in the third with a close-range jumper from No.14, Maike Fasbender. The Kestrels replied with an outside bomb from Kristina Karpova, but after a further 2-points from Kurkowski to make the 42-41, this is the last time the Kestrels would lead in the third. Fasbender, Nunez and Antonio combined to spark an 0-8 run for the visiting Rockets. It was the Kestrel’s bench that came to the rescue with Karpova scoring 8 of her 11-points in the quarter. The quarter ended even at 54-54 all and everything to play for.
The Kestrels started the fourth with a renewed sense of urgency at the defensive end, which sparked their transition game and a 10-4 run. Reading responded through Maria Gomez, who buried two at the foul line. But it was too little too late and the Kestrels went on another 10-2 run. Krizstina Velkey paced all scorers with a season-high 23-points, 10-rebounds and 9-assists.
After the game Coach Lee remarked “This a good win against a very tough Reading team. Reading’s league position doesn’t reflect how good they are and we spent a lot of time preparing for this game. We didn’t execute well in the first half of the game, but we held our nerve in the third and finished the game strong, which is something we’ve been focussing on in practice.”
Game Leaders:-
Team Solent Kestrels: K. Velkey 23, G. Gomez 17, K. Karpova 11
Reading Rockets : C. Hermida Nunez 12, 19, M Delow Fasbender 12, M. Valdeolmillos Gomez 11
TSK stated their intentions early, establishing an early 10-6 lead midway through the first quarter. TSK first attacked on the inside with buckets from a below par [sick] Kurkowski and very efficient Jackson. Reading responded by attacking the paint through Noa Sanchez Marques and Reveron Herranz De Antonio. However, it was a composed TSK performance that would mark the first quarter, who’s defensive efforts held the Rockets scoreless for the last three-minutes of the period and securing a 7-point lead, 19-12.
Whilst the Kestrels defensive pressure on the Rockets kept the Reading side at bay for much of the second period, it was the Rockets who took the initiative going into the half-time break. The Kestrels would see offensive production from a combination of Gomez and Velkey from the outside, supported by Kurkowski and Jackson in the paint. However, the Rockets would win the quarter, scoring 23-points and pulling within 2-points by the half, 37-35.
Reading struck first in the third with a close-range jumper from No.14, Maike Fasbender. The Kestrels replied with an outside bomb from Kristina Karpova, but after a further 2-points from Kurkowski to make the 42-41, this is the last time the Kestrels would lead in the third. Fasbender, Nunez and Antonio combined to spark an 0-8 run for the visiting Rockets. It was the Kestrel’s bench that came to the rescue with Karpova scoring 8 of her 11-points in the quarter. The quarter ended even at 54-54 all and everything to play for.
The Kestrels started the fourth with a renewed sense of urgency at the defensive end, which sparked their transition game and a 10-4 run. Reading responded through Maria Gomez, who buried two at the foul line. But it was too little too late and the Kestrels went on another 10-2 run. Krizstina Velkey paced all scorers with a season-high 23-points, 10-rebounds and 9-assists.
After the game Coach Lee remarked “This a good win against a very tough Reading team. Reading’s league position doesn’t reflect how good they are and we spent a lot of time preparing for this game. We didn’t execute well in the first half of the game, but we held our nerve in the third and finished the game strong, which is something we’ve been focussing on in practice.”
Game Leaders:-
Team Solent Kestrels: K. Velkey 23, G. Gomez 17, K. Karpova 11
Reading Rockets : C. Hermida Nunez 12, 19, M Delow Fasbender 12, M. Valdeolmillos Gomez 11
TSK PICK UP CONVINCING VICTORY OVER BARKING ABBEY
Image Courtesy | Mirror Box Studios
After a weekend break TSK Division 1 women were back in action at home to take on East London based Barking Abbey in the Division 1 Championship. Barking entered the contest 2-6 and sitting 9th in the ten team league versus a Kestrels team with some solid results in recent weeks. However, games are never won on paper and TSK would be required to show some resolve to get this one over the line.
TSK scored first with a long-range bomb from behind the three-point line, before barking opened their account with a drive to the basket from No. 15 Annim. What followed was a bizarre 4-minutes in which neither team could hit a basket, until Eloise Sneddon hit another 3-pointer for the Kestrels, bringing the score to 6-3 after 5-minutes of play. Suddenly the Kestrels found some rhythm, hitting with impunity from the inside through Kurkowski and another outside shot from Sneddon. When Gomez got fouled and hit all three free-throws, the Kestrels had a 16-7 lead. Despite consecutive scores from No. 6 Sheaia, it was the Kestrels who dominated the first stanza of the game, finishing the quarter 23-14.
However, the second period was a very different affair in which a low scoring quarter was dominated by Barking. Whilst Barking made adjustments at the defensive end, the Kestrels struggled to find the basket, often settling for early mid-range and perimeter jump-shots. Barking’s No.14, Pawalta, was the high-scorer for the period with 6-points. Despite their scoring woes, TSK finished the half with a 5-point lead, 30-25.
In the third TSK remained passive on offence, despite an early points from Kestrels’s starting-centre, Earleesha Jackson, who would score six of her 18-points total in the quarter. However, a comprehensive defensive performance limited Barking to just 7-quarter points, subsequently stretching the Kestrels’ advantage to 13-points.
After three relatively subdued quarters of basketball, the Kestrels came alive in the fourth. Andrea Kurkowski got things started with a close range jump-shot, quickly followed by Gomez, attacking the basket to extend the lead to 17-points. Barking’s Annim got fouled and hit one of two from the line, but the Kestrel’s shooting guard, Chiara Di Stefano, hit back with a contested jump-shot to make the lead 18-points. Di Stefano’s 9-points and 5 assists in the quarter might have been the story of the quarter, had Gomez not put on a show for her team and the fans. With 6-minutes to play, Gomez hit the first of four consecutive 3-pointers to pace all scorers and reach a game high 27-points for the game. When Di-Stefano stole the ball and made a buzzer beating lay-up to end the game, the Kestrels had scored 39-points fourth-quarter points in an upside down win, 84-44.
After the game Coach Lee was relieved to seal the win, saying, “We’ve talked a lot about how these types of games can be dangerous for a team’s momentum. We played very loose in the early going and didn’t respond well to Barking’s defence. For a team with our aspirations to score just 7-points in a quarter isn’t good. The last quarter demonstrated how when we commit at the defensive end, and move the ball, good things will happen.”
Game leaders:-
Team Solent Kestrels: G. Gomez 27, E. Jackson 18, Di Stefano 11
Barking Abbey: P. Pawalta 12, E. Osilija 11, L. Annim 9
TSK scored first with a long-range bomb from behind the three-point line, before barking opened their account with a drive to the basket from No. 15 Annim. What followed was a bizarre 4-minutes in which neither team could hit a basket, until Eloise Sneddon hit another 3-pointer for the Kestrels, bringing the score to 6-3 after 5-minutes of play. Suddenly the Kestrels found some rhythm, hitting with impunity from the inside through Kurkowski and another outside shot from Sneddon. When Gomez got fouled and hit all three free-throws, the Kestrels had a 16-7 lead. Despite consecutive scores from No. 6 Sheaia, it was the Kestrels who dominated the first stanza of the game, finishing the quarter 23-14.
However, the second period was a very different affair in which a low scoring quarter was dominated by Barking. Whilst Barking made adjustments at the defensive end, the Kestrels struggled to find the basket, often settling for early mid-range and perimeter jump-shots. Barking’s No.14, Pawalta, was the high-scorer for the period with 6-points. Despite their scoring woes, TSK finished the half with a 5-point lead, 30-25.
In the third TSK remained passive on offence, despite an early points from Kestrels’s starting-centre, Earleesha Jackson, who would score six of her 18-points total in the quarter. However, a comprehensive defensive performance limited Barking to just 7-quarter points, subsequently stretching the Kestrels’ advantage to 13-points.
After three relatively subdued quarters of basketball, the Kestrels came alive in the fourth. Andrea Kurkowski got things started with a close range jump-shot, quickly followed by Gomez, attacking the basket to extend the lead to 17-points. Barking’s Annim got fouled and hit one of two from the line, but the Kestrel’s shooting guard, Chiara Di Stefano, hit back with a contested jump-shot to make the lead 18-points. Di Stefano’s 9-points and 5 assists in the quarter might have been the story of the quarter, had Gomez not put on a show for her team and the fans. With 6-minutes to play, Gomez hit the first of four consecutive 3-pointers to pace all scorers and reach a game high 27-points for the game. When Di-Stefano stole the ball and made a buzzer beating lay-up to end the game, the Kestrels had scored 39-points fourth-quarter points in an upside down win, 84-44.
After the game Coach Lee was relieved to seal the win, saying, “We’ve talked a lot about how these types of games can be dangerous for a team’s momentum. We played very loose in the early going and didn’t respond well to Barking’s defence. For a team with our aspirations to score just 7-points in a quarter isn’t good. The last quarter demonstrated how when we commit at the defensive end, and move the ball, good things will happen.”
Game leaders:-
Team Solent Kestrels: G. Gomez 27, E. Jackson 18, Di Stefano 11
Barking Abbey: P. Pawalta 12, E. Osilija 11, L. Annim 9
KESTRELS BOOK SEMI FINAL TICKET WITH BIG WIN OVER BIRMINGHAM
TSK Division 1 women played their second home game of the weekend, this time in the National Cup Quarter Finals. Team Birmingham Elite (TBE) made the trip from the Midlands, after losing the previous day to Loughborough. Conversely, TSK were coming off a win, the day before, to Southwark in the WNBL D1, having moved into second place, behind Bristol Academy Flyers.
Team Birmingham scored first with a jump-shot from Number 11, Cooper. However, the home team responded quickly, going on a 14-point run. Gomez got the home team started with four of the starters scoring, before Lucie Woellenstein came off the bench to make an immediate impact, giving TSK a 14-point lead. However, the combination of TBE’s Brindley and Cooper finished the quarter strong. The pair combined to score all fifteen of Birmingham’s first quarter points. The quarter ended, 20-15.
The front-court combo of Jackson and Kurkowski punished the visitors on the inside, combining for the first six TSK points of the second period. After both Gomez and Jackson got to the line by the middle of the quarter, TSK were up by 13, but Rebecca Brindley’s 11- points for the quarter kept the visitors in contention, and cut the deficit to just 11-points at the half. The half-time score was 44-33.
Whilst both teams struggled to find the basket in the early going, a 2-point bucket from Gomez broke the seal. Shooting-Guard, Eloise Sneddon hit a big 3-point bomb, followed by quick baskets from Andrea Kurkowski, Earla Jackson and another 3-pointer from Kristina Karpova. All in all, TSK went on a 13-point run and held a 20-point lead, before TBE scored a bucket from Salmon. Karpova would score 7-points in the quarter, whilst TBE could only manage 10-points combined. TSK took an almost unassailable 22-point lead to finish the period, 65-43.
The final quarter saw the visitors finally find some offensive focus, sparked once again by Brindley who scored a further three of her game-high, 20-points. However, it was the home team that finished strongest with buckets from Curson, Jerram, Cante, Kurkowski, Karpova, Jackson and Velkey to close the period, 88-60.
“Today was a very solid performance, particularly after a tough game yesterday. Everyone showed-up this weekend and played their role well. As a team I feel like we took a really positive step forwards in moving the ball and finding each other. At the defensive end we played together and made adjustments, so I’m looking forward to a productive practice this week and we should all be pleased with our production this weekend.” Commented Coach CJ Lee.
Game leaders:-
Team Solent Kestrels: E. Jackson 18, A. Kurkowski 15, K.Velkey 14
Team Birmingham Elite: R. Brindley 20, J. Copper 18, G. Salmon 9
Team Birmingham scored first with a jump-shot from Number 11, Cooper. However, the home team responded quickly, going on a 14-point run. Gomez got the home team started with four of the starters scoring, before Lucie Woellenstein came off the bench to make an immediate impact, giving TSK a 14-point lead. However, the combination of TBE’s Brindley and Cooper finished the quarter strong. The pair combined to score all fifteen of Birmingham’s first quarter points. The quarter ended, 20-15.
The front-court combo of Jackson and Kurkowski punished the visitors on the inside, combining for the first six TSK points of the second period. After both Gomez and Jackson got to the line by the middle of the quarter, TSK were up by 13, but Rebecca Brindley’s 11- points for the quarter kept the visitors in contention, and cut the deficit to just 11-points at the half. The half-time score was 44-33.
Whilst both teams struggled to find the basket in the early going, a 2-point bucket from Gomez broke the seal. Shooting-Guard, Eloise Sneddon hit a big 3-point bomb, followed by quick baskets from Andrea Kurkowski, Earla Jackson and another 3-pointer from Kristina Karpova. All in all, TSK went on a 13-point run and held a 20-point lead, before TBE scored a bucket from Salmon. Karpova would score 7-points in the quarter, whilst TBE could only manage 10-points combined. TSK took an almost unassailable 22-point lead to finish the period, 65-43.
The final quarter saw the visitors finally find some offensive focus, sparked once again by Brindley who scored a further three of her game-high, 20-points. However, it was the home team that finished strongest with buckets from Curson, Jerram, Cante, Kurkowski, Karpova, Jackson and Velkey to close the period, 88-60.
“Today was a very solid performance, particularly after a tough game yesterday. Everyone showed-up this weekend and played their role well. As a team I feel like we took a really positive step forwards in moving the ball and finding each other. At the defensive end we played together and made adjustments, so I’m looking forward to a productive practice this week and we should all be pleased with our production this weekend.” Commented Coach CJ Lee.
Game leaders:-
Team Solent Kestrels: E. Jackson 18, A. Kurkowski 15, K.Velkey 14
Team Birmingham Elite: R. Brindley 20, J. Copper 18, G. Salmon 9
TSK GET BACK TO WINNING WAYS AS THEY SEE OFF PRIDE
TSK Division 1 women were back at home this weekend to take on visiting Southwark Pride in the Division 1 Championship. Southwark were sitting in third, one place above the Kestrels, so the game was set to juggle or cement places based on the result.
Both teams came out firing with Krisztina Velkey getting off the mark first with a 2-point jump shot. Southwark responded quickly through Sarkodee-Adoo, but it was the Kestrels who looked the more focussed. In fact, all five starters scored in the period as Kestrels pushed the ball in transition and moved the ball with impunity, sparking a 16-4 run. Southwark regrouped and buckets from Sarkodee-Adoo, Sandie, Haines and Hyacienth got them to a total of 14 points for the quarter, but some superb 3-point shooting from Melanie Curson, who went 2 for 2 from behind the arc, gave the home team a 27-14 lead to end the first quarter.
The second quarter was a much tighter affair with both teams making adjustments at the defensive end. Southwark jumped the pick and roll, which all but extinguished the Kestrels ball movement. The Kestrels defence also worked hard to limit Southwark to contested perimeter shooting. After 4-minutes of play each team had only scored 2-points. The quarter ending largely in a stalemate, with Southwark taking a minor advantage, eventually scoring 14-points, whilst the Kestrels could only manage twelve. Half-time score 39-28.
In the third quarter the TSK re-found their rhythm on offence. The starting combo of Gomez and Velkey came out with renewed purpose, combing for twelve of the Kestrels seventeen quarter points. Southwark equally benefited from some inside scoring from Number 12, Watkins, whilst Sandie provided some much needed perimeter balance. TSK held onto a 14-point lead to finish the quarter, 56-42 ahead.
Southwark are not a team to lie down and roll over and took their defensive intensity to another level in fourth. With 3:18 remaining the Kestrels still had a 12-point lead, when Velkey fouled Sandie, who obliged by hitting both free throws, then stealing the ball back on the inbounds and scoring another two. Earla Jackson scored a two at the other end, to put the home team back ahead by nine, but seven quick points from Southwark reduced that lead to just two, before Gomez’s assist to Jackson gave her another score to add to her 14 points and seal the win for the home team.
After the game Coach Lee was pleased with the performance, saying “We’ve been working hard on creating easier baskets and upping our productivity from key players. We did that today with some really balanced scoring and improved communication at the defensive end. The bench did a great job today and played some crucial minutes, so we’re ready for tomorrow’s cup game.”
Game leaders:-
Team Solent Kestrels: G. Gomez 15, K.Velkey 14, E. Jackson 14
Southwark Pride: A. Sandie 22, E. Oluade 14, A. Watkins 10
Both teams came out firing with Krisztina Velkey getting off the mark first with a 2-point jump shot. Southwark responded quickly through Sarkodee-Adoo, but it was the Kestrels who looked the more focussed. In fact, all five starters scored in the period as Kestrels pushed the ball in transition and moved the ball with impunity, sparking a 16-4 run. Southwark regrouped and buckets from Sarkodee-Adoo, Sandie, Haines and Hyacienth got them to a total of 14 points for the quarter, but some superb 3-point shooting from Melanie Curson, who went 2 for 2 from behind the arc, gave the home team a 27-14 lead to end the first quarter.
The second quarter was a much tighter affair with both teams making adjustments at the defensive end. Southwark jumped the pick and roll, which all but extinguished the Kestrels ball movement. The Kestrels defence also worked hard to limit Southwark to contested perimeter shooting. After 4-minutes of play each team had only scored 2-points. The quarter ending largely in a stalemate, with Southwark taking a minor advantage, eventually scoring 14-points, whilst the Kestrels could only manage twelve. Half-time score 39-28.
In the third quarter the TSK re-found their rhythm on offence. The starting combo of Gomez and Velkey came out with renewed purpose, combing for twelve of the Kestrels seventeen quarter points. Southwark equally benefited from some inside scoring from Number 12, Watkins, whilst Sandie provided some much needed perimeter balance. TSK held onto a 14-point lead to finish the quarter, 56-42 ahead.
Southwark are not a team to lie down and roll over and took their defensive intensity to another level in fourth. With 3:18 remaining the Kestrels still had a 12-point lead, when Velkey fouled Sandie, who obliged by hitting both free throws, then stealing the ball back on the inbounds and scoring another two. Earla Jackson scored a two at the other end, to put the home team back ahead by nine, but seven quick points from Southwark reduced that lead to just two, before Gomez’s assist to Jackson gave her another score to add to her 14 points and seal the win for the home team.
After the game Coach Lee was pleased with the performance, saying “We’ve been working hard on creating easier baskets and upping our productivity from key players. We did that today with some really balanced scoring and improved communication at the defensive end. The bench did a great job today and played some crucial minutes, so we’re ready for tomorrow’s cup game.”
Game leaders:-
Team Solent Kestrels: G. Gomez 15, K.Velkey 14, E. Jackson 14
Southwark Pride: A. Sandie 22, E. Oluade 14, A. Watkins 10
NARROW LOSS ON THE ROAD FOR TSK IN CAMBRIDGE
Image Courtesy | Luke Simcock (lsmedia)
After an unplanned hiatus for the start of November, Team Solent Kestrels Women were back on the road on Saturday 10th November 2018. TSK travelled to Cambridge to face-off against last year’s Play-Off Champions, Anglia Ruskin University. Both teams entered the contest off the back of solid performances in October, so this was shaping to be a great contest from the outset.
Both teams came out firing with Anglia getting off the mark first with a 3-point bomb from Maddaloni. The Kestrels responded in-kind with points from Gomez, Velkey and Kurkowski. TSK would take a small lead midway in the quarter, but Anglia’s Number 4, Koutsourelaki, hit two big threes in the quarter keeping the home team in close contention. It was, however, Gomez who would hit a three of her own and a 2-point jump shot to close out the quarter, 21-20 to the Kestrels.
In the second quarter both teams made adjustments at the defensive end and the game became a back and forth affair. ARU guard Nadege Talva scored 7 of her game high, 28 points, but this was off-set by TSK’s Centre, Earlesha Jackson, who scored 6-points in the quarter, ably assisted by contributions from Velkey and Gomez and topped off by a late 3- pointer from Kristina Karpova. Whilst the quarter had proffered 15-points for both teams, it was Ruskin that looked the more connected and fluid on offence.
At the start of the second-half Anglia came out on fire and went on an 8-0 run, quickly extinguishing the Kestrels meagre half-time lead. Coach Lee, called a time-out and reminded his players to commit on the defensive end, whilst playing with more composure on offence. Anglia scored again through Talva, taking a 9-point lead before Krisztina Velkey restored balance with a strong drive to the basketball and got fouled, which resulted in a made basket and one. Geena Gomez followed suit, scoring a further 7 and sparking a 10-4 run in favour of the Kestrels, who ended the quarter, 51-49 ahead.
Both teams played with determination in the final quarter. The Kestrels forced Anglia into several mistakes through their pressure. Not to be outdone Anglia’s number 15, Treadwell, came to to the hosts rescue, scoring 10-points in the quarter that not only kept them in contention, but ultimately turned the tide for the home team. Despite having several opportunities to close out the contest, the Kestrels fell short in the closest of fought match ups so far this year. Anglia Ruskin took the first of two meetings, 70-73.
Despite the loss, Coach Lee was in philosophical mood after the game; “I don’t like losing, but we will learn a lot about ourselves from today’s game. We had chances to win and you can’t ask for more than that. We didn’t play well in the first half, but remained in the game down the stretch, so I know we’ll be better next time out.”
Game leaders:-
Anglia Ruskin University: N. Talva 28, N. Treadwell 24
Team Solent Kestrels: G. Gomez 24, K.Velkey 10, A.Kurkowski 9, K.Karpova 9
Both teams came out firing with Anglia getting off the mark first with a 3-point bomb from Maddaloni. The Kestrels responded in-kind with points from Gomez, Velkey and Kurkowski. TSK would take a small lead midway in the quarter, but Anglia’s Number 4, Koutsourelaki, hit two big threes in the quarter keeping the home team in close contention. It was, however, Gomez who would hit a three of her own and a 2-point jump shot to close out the quarter, 21-20 to the Kestrels.
In the second quarter both teams made adjustments at the defensive end and the game became a back and forth affair. ARU guard Nadege Talva scored 7 of her game high, 28 points, but this was off-set by TSK’s Centre, Earlesha Jackson, who scored 6-points in the quarter, ably assisted by contributions from Velkey and Gomez and topped off by a late 3- pointer from Kristina Karpova. Whilst the quarter had proffered 15-points for both teams, it was Ruskin that looked the more connected and fluid on offence.
At the start of the second-half Anglia came out on fire and went on an 8-0 run, quickly extinguishing the Kestrels meagre half-time lead. Coach Lee, called a time-out and reminded his players to commit on the defensive end, whilst playing with more composure on offence. Anglia scored again through Talva, taking a 9-point lead before Krisztina Velkey restored balance with a strong drive to the basketball and got fouled, which resulted in a made basket and one. Geena Gomez followed suit, scoring a further 7 and sparking a 10-4 run in favour of the Kestrels, who ended the quarter, 51-49 ahead.
Both teams played with determination in the final quarter. The Kestrels forced Anglia into several mistakes through their pressure. Not to be outdone Anglia’s number 15, Treadwell, came to to the hosts rescue, scoring 10-points in the quarter that not only kept them in contention, but ultimately turned the tide for the home team. Despite having several opportunities to close out the contest, the Kestrels fell short in the closest of fought match ups so far this year. Anglia Ruskin took the first of two meetings, 70-73.
Despite the loss, Coach Lee was in philosophical mood after the game; “I don’t like losing, but we will learn a lot about ourselves from today’s game. We had chances to win and you can’t ask for more than that. We didn’t play well in the first half, but remained in the game down the stretch, so I know we’ll be better next time out.”
Game leaders:-
Anglia Ruskin University: N. Talva 28, N. Treadwell 24
Team Solent Kestrels: G. Gomez 24, K.Velkey 10, A.Kurkowski 9, K.Karpova 9
TSK BOOK SPOT IN QUARTER FINALS AFTER NOTTINGHAM WIN
Team Solent Kestrels Women were back in action in the 2nd Round of the National Cup on Saturday 27th October 2018. A near 4-hour road trip almost resulted in an abandonment when the home team, Nottingham Trent University, couldn’t find their licence cards. Thanks to the combined efforts of the officials and our own Performance Analyst, Cliff Fullbrook, the pre- game drama was resolved just minutes before the 7:30pm tip-time and the game got underway.
Both teams looked rusty in the early going, with several missed shots from close-range. The home team drew first blood with a made basket through Richardson. Kestrels Captain, Melanie Dell, levelled the score which settled the team with buckets from Earla Jackson, Andrea Kurkowski and Geena Gomez in quick succession, sparking a 20-5 run. However, it was the Nottingham outfit that finished the quarter the stronger, going on a 6-0 run to end the period, TSK up 22-13.
The second quarter was a back and forth affair, with both teams showing a mixture of laxity and tenacity. Nottingham attacked the Kestrels defence on the interior, despite being the smaller team, Power Forward Musson created some serious match-up problems for the Kestrels, as they struggled to keep bodies between the opposing players and the basket. At the opposite end, the Kestrels continued their trade mark inside-out attack with points from Kristina Karpova, Jodi Jerram on the outside and Lucie Wöellenstein and Melanie Dell on the interior. The Kestrel’s weathered Nottingham’s fightback, extending their led by just 1-point. Half-time score, 36-26.
Coach Lee’s half-time talk centred around focus and composure at the offensive end and urgency at the defensive end. The team responded in kind, holding the home team to 11 points, going on a 17-2 run and extinguishing any chances of a NTU comeback. The Kestrels bench provided some intensity at both ends of the floor with Karpova showing a return to form, after a week away from the team. End of the 3rd score, 59-37.
In the final quarter, Nottingham continued to play with determination, but despite the heroic efforts of starting guard Gray, who scored almost half of the team’s total with 24 points, the home team could do little to reduce the deficit. Though they would score another 14-points in the 4th, the pressure of the Kestrel’s full-court pressure proved too much for the Nottingham team. When Chiara Di Stefano hit a jump-shot early in the quarter, nine of the Kestrel’s players had scored in a game which was all but over by the middle of the third quarter. Final score, 81-53.
Coach Lee said after the game, “I think the combination of the long drive and late tip time really affected our energy at the start of the game. Nottingham came at us hard, but as well as they played I think we looked like a team that has been playing together a little longer. Defensively we broke the game open in 3rd, which bodes well for future contests.”
TSK will play host to Team Birmingham Elite at St. Mary’s Leisure Centre on Sunday 18th November 2018 in the Quarter Finals.
Game leaders:-
Team Solent Kestrels: G. Gomez 25, K. Karpova 10, A. Kurkowski 9
Nottingham Trent University: V. Gray 24, F. Musson 11, B. O’Neill 8
Both teams looked rusty in the early going, with several missed shots from close-range. The home team drew first blood with a made basket through Richardson. Kestrels Captain, Melanie Dell, levelled the score which settled the team with buckets from Earla Jackson, Andrea Kurkowski and Geena Gomez in quick succession, sparking a 20-5 run. However, it was the Nottingham outfit that finished the quarter the stronger, going on a 6-0 run to end the period, TSK up 22-13.
The second quarter was a back and forth affair, with both teams showing a mixture of laxity and tenacity. Nottingham attacked the Kestrels defence on the interior, despite being the smaller team, Power Forward Musson created some serious match-up problems for the Kestrels, as they struggled to keep bodies between the opposing players and the basket. At the opposite end, the Kestrels continued their trade mark inside-out attack with points from Kristina Karpova, Jodi Jerram on the outside and Lucie Wöellenstein and Melanie Dell on the interior. The Kestrel’s weathered Nottingham’s fightback, extending their led by just 1-point. Half-time score, 36-26.
Coach Lee’s half-time talk centred around focus and composure at the offensive end and urgency at the defensive end. The team responded in kind, holding the home team to 11 points, going on a 17-2 run and extinguishing any chances of a NTU comeback. The Kestrels bench provided some intensity at both ends of the floor with Karpova showing a return to form, after a week away from the team. End of the 3rd score, 59-37.
In the final quarter, Nottingham continued to play with determination, but despite the heroic efforts of starting guard Gray, who scored almost half of the team’s total with 24 points, the home team could do little to reduce the deficit. Though they would score another 14-points in the 4th, the pressure of the Kestrel’s full-court pressure proved too much for the Nottingham team. When Chiara Di Stefano hit a jump-shot early in the quarter, nine of the Kestrel’s players had scored in a game which was all but over by the middle of the third quarter. Final score, 81-53.
Coach Lee said after the game, “I think the combination of the long drive and late tip time really affected our energy at the start of the game. Nottingham came at us hard, but as well as they played I think we looked like a team that has been playing together a little longer. Defensively we broke the game open in 3rd, which bodes well for future contests.”
TSK will play host to Team Birmingham Elite at St. Mary’s Leisure Centre on Sunday 18th November 2018 in the Quarter Finals.
Game leaders:-
Team Solent Kestrels: G. Gomez 25, K. Karpova 10, A. Kurkowski 9
Nottingham Trent University: V. Gray 24, F. Musson 11, B. O’Neill 8
KESTRELS STIFLE RIDERS TO TAKE VICTORY AT HOME
Team Solent Kestrels Women were back at home on Saturday 20th Octobe 2018, playing host to the East Midlands based, Loughborough Student Riders. The Riders entered the game in great form, after beating Southwark Pride and Oxford Brookes in the early weeks of the season. The Kestrels were also coming into the game off the back of consecutive wins in the past couple of weeks.
The game started at whirlwind pace with the Riders getting off the mark first with a jump- shot from Holly Wright, quickly followed by a mid-range bucket from Kestrel’s American guard, Geena Gomez. Kestrels continued to attack the hoop with baskets from Krisztina Velkey and Gomez, whilst Eloise Sneddon kept the Riders’ defence honest by scoring from the outside. The Kestrels enjoyed a 6-point lead before the visitors found their rhythm, attacking the mid-range, with Dawson coming off the bench and scoring a quick 4-points. However, it was the Kestrels who looked the more convincing in the first quarter, led by 8-points from Velkey, pushing the hosts ahead, 19-12.
In the second quarter, the Kestrels defence went into high-gear, protecting the paint and limiting the opposition’s attack to the mid-range and 3-point line. Despite an early 3-pointer from Rider’s Lauren Saa, the visitors struggled to find their range from the perimeter. The Kestrels too were not firing on full throttle, but some good phases of ball movement allowed the Kestrels to get contributions from their bench with Jerram, Karpova and Wöellenstein coming into the game and making solid contributions. The Riders were held to just 7-points in the quarter, whilst the Kestrels added a further 11-points, to go into the half, 31-19.
In the second half the Riders defence went into overdrive, creating panic for the Kestrels offence, which until this point had looked patient and decisive. The Riders began to set the tempo which triggered their offensive production. Despite early back-to-back threes from Gomez, it was the Riders that went on a 6-point run to end the period, down by 14 at the end of the quarter.
After making some adjustments in the break the Kestrels went to work at both ends of the floor. TSK’s offensive production was given a boost by Andrea Kurkowski, who scored eight of her game high 20-points in the early part of the quarter. With a lead as big as 25-points in the fourth, Kestrels had contributions from all 12 players. Despite a late run by the Riders, with Lauren France scoring all 11 of her points, the game was ultimately dominated by a gritty defensive performance and a balanced inside-out attack that prevented the Riders from establishing their trademark run n gun style play.
Coach Lee was pleased after the game, saying “We’ve spent a really focussed week on our defensive principles and communication. We have a roster tailor-made to be a real defensive presence and I feel today’s result is a testament to how good we can be at the defensive end. Offensively, we had some big performances, particularly from the inside, which is great considering we were missing one of our regular starters. It’s nice to be back at the top of the table, but the season is long and we still have plenty of work to do.”
Game Leaders:-
Team Solent Kestrels: A. Kurkowski 20, G. Gomez 17, K. Velkey 10,
Loughborough Riders: H. Dawson 12, L. France 11, H. Davies 6
The game started at whirlwind pace with the Riders getting off the mark first with a jump- shot from Holly Wright, quickly followed by a mid-range bucket from Kestrel’s American guard, Geena Gomez. Kestrels continued to attack the hoop with baskets from Krisztina Velkey and Gomez, whilst Eloise Sneddon kept the Riders’ defence honest by scoring from the outside. The Kestrels enjoyed a 6-point lead before the visitors found their rhythm, attacking the mid-range, with Dawson coming off the bench and scoring a quick 4-points. However, it was the Kestrels who looked the more convincing in the first quarter, led by 8-points from Velkey, pushing the hosts ahead, 19-12.
In the second quarter, the Kestrels defence went into high-gear, protecting the paint and limiting the opposition’s attack to the mid-range and 3-point line. Despite an early 3-pointer from Rider’s Lauren Saa, the visitors struggled to find their range from the perimeter. The Kestrels too were not firing on full throttle, but some good phases of ball movement allowed the Kestrels to get contributions from their bench with Jerram, Karpova and Wöellenstein coming into the game and making solid contributions. The Riders were held to just 7-points in the quarter, whilst the Kestrels added a further 11-points, to go into the half, 31-19.
In the second half the Riders defence went into overdrive, creating panic for the Kestrels offence, which until this point had looked patient and decisive. The Riders began to set the tempo which triggered their offensive production. Despite early back-to-back threes from Gomez, it was the Riders that went on a 6-point run to end the period, down by 14 at the end of the quarter.
After making some adjustments in the break the Kestrels went to work at both ends of the floor. TSK’s offensive production was given a boost by Andrea Kurkowski, who scored eight of her game high 20-points in the early part of the quarter. With a lead as big as 25-points in the fourth, Kestrels had contributions from all 12 players. Despite a late run by the Riders, with Lauren France scoring all 11 of her points, the game was ultimately dominated by a gritty defensive performance and a balanced inside-out attack that prevented the Riders from establishing their trademark run n gun style play.
Coach Lee was pleased after the game, saying “We’ve spent a really focussed week on our defensive principles and communication. We have a roster tailor-made to be a real defensive presence and I feel today’s result is a testament to how good we can be at the defensive end. Offensively, we had some big performances, particularly from the inside, which is great considering we were missing one of our regular starters. It’s nice to be back at the top of the table, but the season is long and we still have plenty of work to do.”
Game Leaders:-
Team Solent Kestrels: A. Kurkowski 20, G. Gomez 17, K. Velkey 10,
Loughborough Riders: H. Dawson 12, L. France 11, H. Davies 6
TSK HOLD ON LATE TO SECURE VITAL ROAD WIN IN BIRMINGHAM
Image Courtesy | Mirror Box Studios
On Sunday 14th October Team Solent Kestrels Women hit the road to face Team Birmingham Elite at the The Factory Young People’s Centre. Both Teams had won one and lost one game, so this fixture would start to create some distance between the teams and give each a sense of the competition depth across the league. Kestrel’s starting small forward, Krisztina Velkey returned to the line-up, whilst Birmingham had a full-line including stand out guard, Rebecca Brindley and former BBL player, Lisa Greenaway.
Whilst the Kestrels got off the mark quickly with Geena Gomez scoring 8 of the Kestrels first 10-points, both teams traded baskets in the early going. Rebecca Brindley was not to be out-done and Kestrels struggled to keep a body on her, as she hit 8 of Team BIrmingham’s 10 first-quarter points. However, it was a balanced attack from Kestrels that dominated the play and led to them jumping out to a 10-point lead, finishing the quarter, 20-10.
In the second quarter, the west midlands outfit made adjustments, and whilst Brindley continued to plague the Kestrels defence, big performances from Lucy Buxton and tough defence from Greenaway kept the hosts in the running. However, efforts to guard Gomez out of the game proved largely futile, as she scored another 12-points in the quarter. It was the Kestrel’s bench that proved the difference though with Kristina Karpova coming in to add 7-points of her own with notable contributions from Stevie Ellis at both ends of the floor. The half ended with Kestrels extending their lead by 2-points, 46-34.
In the second half Team Birmingham refused to go away and battled to create problems for the Kestrels at both ends of the floor. Brindley created match-up problems for Kestrel’s defence, whilst offensively the Kestrels seemed to lose some of the focus and composure shown in the first half. A tight third quarter allowed Birmingham to stay within striking distance, even though the Kestrels held onto a 10-point lead.
With 5-minutes left in the game, Solent made some costly unforced errors, which allowed Birmingham back into the game. With 1:21 left on the clock and a 6-point lead, Brindley made a deep three, reducing the deficit to just 3-points. Kestrels immediately turned over the ball, which led to a fast break lay-up by Greenaway. However, Jackson made a key jump-shot to settle the visiting team, followed by a couple of big free-throws by Andrea Kurkowski. Despite a last ditch attempt to stop the clock, Jackson was fouled in the act of shooting and made a final free-throw to close out the game for TSK, final score 81-76.
Coach Lee was pleased after the game, saying; “We played some excellent basketball in the first quarter and that was the difference in a game where both teams showed-up to play. However, equally important was our ability to close-out a game where the opposition finds its feet and momentum in the second-half. It’s clear that some opponents bring out the best in certain players. Brindley has been relatively quiet in the first couple of games this season, but she always comes to play when the Kestrels are in town. Today was a really positive step in our overall development as a team, so I’m pleased with the manner in which we secured the win.”
Game leaders:-
Team Birmingham Elite: R.Brindley 34, J.Cooper 14, L. Buxton 13
Team Solent Kestrels: G. Gomez 30, K.Velkey 12, E.Jackson 11, A.Kurkowski 10
Whilst the Kestrels got off the mark quickly with Geena Gomez scoring 8 of the Kestrels first 10-points, both teams traded baskets in the early going. Rebecca Brindley was not to be out-done and Kestrels struggled to keep a body on her, as she hit 8 of Team BIrmingham’s 10 first-quarter points. However, it was a balanced attack from Kestrels that dominated the play and led to them jumping out to a 10-point lead, finishing the quarter, 20-10.
In the second quarter, the west midlands outfit made adjustments, and whilst Brindley continued to plague the Kestrels defence, big performances from Lucy Buxton and tough defence from Greenaway kept the hosts in the running. However, efforts to guard Gomez out of the game proved largely futile, as she scored another 12-points in the quarter. It was the Kestrel’s bench that proved the difference though with Kristina Karpova coming in to add 7-points of her own with notable contributions from Stevie Ellis at both ends of the floor. The half ended with Kestrels extending their lead by 2-points, 46-34.
In the second half Team Birmingham refused to go away and battled to create problems for the Kestrels at both ends of the floor. Brindley created match-up problems for Kestrel’s defence, whilst offensively the Kestrels seemed to lose some of the focus and composure shown in the first half. A tight third quarter allowed Birmingham to stay within striking distance, even though the Kestrels held onto a 10-point lead.
With 5-minutes left in the game, Solent made some costly unforced errors, which allowed Birmingham back into the game. With 1:21 left on the clock and a 6-point lead, Brindley made a deep three, reducing the deficit to just 3-points. Kestrels immediately turned over the ball, which led to a fast break lay-up by Greenaway. However, Jackson made a key jump-shot to settle the visiting team, followed by a couple of big free-throws by Andrea Kurkowski. Despite a last ditch attempt to stop the clock, Jackson was fouled in the act of shooting and made a final free-throw to close out the game for TSK, final score 81-76.
Coach Lee was pleased after the game, saying; “We played some excellent basketball in the first quarter and that was the difference in a game where both teams showed-up to play. However, equally important was our ability to close-out a game where the opposition finds its feet and momentum in the second-half. It’s clear that some opponents bring out the best in certain players. Brindley has been relatively quiet in the first couple of games this season, but she always comes to play when the Kestrels are in town. Today was a really positive step in our overall development as a team, so I’m pleased with the manner in which we secured the win.”
Game leaders:-
Team Birmingham Elite: R.Brindley 34, J.Cooper 14, L. Buxton 13
Team Solent Kestrels: G. Gomez 30, K.Velkey 12, E.Jackson 11, A.Kurkowski 10
KESTRELS LOSE OUT TO IPSWICH DOWN THE STRETCH
Saturday 6th October saw the Team Solent Kestrels Women play host to Ipswich for their first home game of the season. Ipswich arrived with a depleted squad, after falling foul to a last- minute stomach bug. Whilst the Kestrels missed their starting small-forward, Krisztina Velkey, the return of Jodi Jerram was sure to provide some added depth to an already formidable roster.
The game saw both unbeaten teams come out firing. Kestrels got off the mark quickly, attacking the Ipswich defence on the inside with Gomez, Jackson and Kurkowski putting the home team ahead by 4-points early (10-6). Ipswich, however, were quick to respond with game leader Harriet Welham taking her team on her back with 14 first-quarter points. Little and Taylor-Willis combined for a further 12-points to end the first quarter and take a commanding 9-point lead into the second quarter, 19-28.
However, not to be outshone on their home court, the Kestrels rallied in the second and pressed home their own defensive effort. Whilst Welham continued to be a thorn in the Kestrels’ defence, Ipswich were held to just 11-points for the quarter. Kestrels forwards, Kurkowski and Jackson, proved too much for Ipswich on the inside, whilst Gomez and Jerram provided balance by attacking from mid-range and the perimeter. The Kestrels offensive barrage and defensive intensity turned the tables by the half, giving them a 5-point lead, 44-39.
The crowd enjoyed another strong showing by both teams in the third, as the Kestrels and Ipswich exchanged punches with both starters and bench players making big plays. A variety of players contributed in the third, but Silvias Cante 100% shooting ensured that the Kestrels closed-out the quarter the stronger team, extending their advantage to 7-points, going into the 4th.
However, it was Ipswich who took the initiative in the 4th. Whilst both teams attacked and pressured, it was Ipswich who would find some offensive rhythm down the stretch, outscoring the home team by 12-points and taking the win, 79-84.
Coach Lee remarked after the game “It’s frustrating to lose a game when we played so well in three out of four quarters. However, allowing Ipswich to score 28-first quarter points and allowing Harriet Welham to get 31-points makes winning any game hard work. We need to close out games with the same level of confidence and patience that got us the lead. Nevertheless, we’re still learning. There was definitely more positives than negatives and we’ll bounce back very quickly.”
Game leaders:-
Ipswich: H.Welham 31, E.Little 17, E. D.Cazey 12
Team Solent Kestrels: G. Gomez 22, E.Jackson 17, A.Kurkowski 14
The game saw both unbeaten teams come out firing. Kestrels got off the mark quickly, attacking the Ipswich defence on the inside with Gomez, Jackson and Kurkowski putting the home team ahead by 4-points early (10-6). Ipswich, however, were quick to respond with game leader Harriet Welham taking her team on her back with 14 first-quarter points. Little and Taylor-Willis combined for a further 12-points to end the first quarter and take a commanding 9-point lead into the second quarter, 19-28.
However, not to be outshone on their home court, the Kestrels rallied in the second and pressed home their own defensive effort. Whilst Welham continued to be a thorn in the Kestrels’ defence, Ipswich were held to just 11-points for the quarter. Kestrels forwards, Kurkowski and Jackson, proved too much for Ipswich on the inside, whilst Gomez and Jerram provided balance by attacking from mid-range and the perimeter. The Kestrels offensive barrage and defensive intensity turned the tables by the half, giving them a 5-point lead, 44-39.
The crowd enjoyed another strong showing by both teams in the third, as the Kestrels and Ipswich exchanged punches with both starters and bench players making big plays. A variety of players contributed in the third, but Silvias Cante 100% shooting ensured that the Kestrels closed-out the quarter the stronger team, extending their advantage to 7-points, going into the 4th.
However, it was Ipswich who took the initiative in the 4th. Whilst both teams attacked and pressured, it was Ipswich who would find some offensive rhythm down the stretch, outscoring the home team by 12-points and taking the win, 79-84.
Coach Lee remarked after the game “It’s frustrating to lose a game when we played so well in three out of four quarters. However, allowing Ipswich to score 28-first quarter points and allowing Harriet Welham to get 31-points makes winning any game hard work. We need to close out games with the same level of confidence and patience that got us the lead. Nevertheless, we’re still learning. There was definitely more positives than negatives and we’ll bounce back very quickly.”
Game leaders:-
Ipswich: H.Welham 31, E.Little 17, E. D.Cazey 12
Team Solent Kestrels: G. Gomez 22, E.Jackson 17, A.Kurkowski 14
NAIL BITING FINISH SEES TSK PICK UP NARROW VICTORY ON THE ROAD
Saturday 22nd September saw the Team Solent Kestrels Women take to the road for the season opener against Sevenoaks Suns. Whilst Sevenoaks are new to the division, Coach Lee was keen to make-up for the loss faced against Sevenoaks in last year’s quarter-final of the Cup.
US guard, Geena Gomez opened up her account with free-throws from the foul-line in a first quarter that would see both teams struggle to hit the mark. Whilst the Kestrels took the initiative to lead 12-15, a late 3-point bucket from Suns’ Hutchinson, tied the game at fifteen a piece to close the first quarter. In the second quarter, two of Kestrel’s newest signings, Gomez and Hungarian born, Krisztina Velkey, combined for 8-points, which saw Kestrels amass an 11-point lead. But it was the Suns who finished the quarter strongest, attacking the Kestrels’ defence at will. Sevenoaks’ Bennet scored 6 unanswered, allowing the Suns to swing the contest back in their favour, going into the half-time break, 32-29 up.
During the break Coach Lee asked his players to play with more discipline at the offensive end and a greater sense of urgency at the defensive end. However, it was the Suns who came out firing, going up by 7, before Jackson, Karpova and Gomez combined to close the gap. Despite a solid run of play by the youthful Suns, Kestrels finished the quarter ahead by 2-pts, 44-46.
The crowd, which included Kestrels’ own U14 girls who had travelled from their own game earlier that day, were treated to a thrilling final-quarter in which neither team could break the elastic. In the dying seconds of the game, a great defensive effort prevented the Suns from taking the lead, followed by a nice piece of skill by Gomez, which led to her going to the line. Gomez missed the first, but sinked the second to seal the game.
Coach Lee commented after the game, “This is the first time I’ve left this court with a win in over 5-years, so I’m thrilled with the result. Though, we might feel like we should have won by more, it’s the manner in which we won that should be the major takeaway from today’s game. Sevenoaks never quit and put us under pressure the whole game. We didn’t always make good adjustments, but we executed our game plan when it mattered the most.”
Game Leaders:-
Sevenoaks Suns: K.Bennet 17, K. Whyte 11, E. Hutchinson 10
Team Solent Kestrels: G. Gomez 19, K.Velkey 15, M. Curson 8, E. Jackson 8
US guard, Geena Gomez opened up her account with free-throws from the foul-line in a first quarter that would see both teams struggle to hit the mark. Whilst the Kestrels took the initiative to lead 12-15, a late 3-point bucket from Suns’ Hutchinson, tied the game at fifteen a piece to close the first quarter. In the second quarter, two of Kestrel’s newest signings, Gomez and Hungarian born, Krisztina Velkey, combined for 8-points, which saw Kestrels amass an 11-point lead. But it was the Suns who finished the quarter strongest, attacking the Kestrels’ defence at will. Sevenoaks’ Bennet scored 6 unanswered, allowing the Suns to swing the contest back in their favour, going into the half-time break, 32-29 up.
During the break Coach Lee asked his players to play with more discipline at the offensive end and a greater sense of urgency at the defensive end. However, it was the Suns who came out firing, going up by 7, before Jackson, Karpova and Gomez combined to close the gap. Despite a solid run of play by the youthful Suns, Kestrels finished the quarter ahead by 2-pts, 44-46.
The crowd, which included Kestrels’ own U14 girls who had travelled from their own game earlier that day, were treated to a thrilling final-quarter in which neither team could break the elastic. In the dying seconds of the game, a great defensive effort prevented the Suns from taking the lead, followed by a nice piece of skill by Gomez, which led to her going to the line. Gomez missed the first, but sinked the second to seal the game.
Coach Lee commented after the game, “This is the first time I’ve left this court with a win in over 5-years, so I’m thrilled with the result. Though, we might feel like we should have won by more, it’s the manner in which we won that should be the major takeaway from today’s game. Sevenoaks never quit and put us under pressure the whole game. We didn’t always make good adjustments, but we executed our game plan when it mattered the most.”
Game Leaders:-
Sevenoaks Suns: K.Bennet 17, K. Whyte 11, E. Hutchinson 10
Team Solent Kestrels: G. Gomez 19, K.Velkey 15, M. Curson 8, E. Jackson 8
TSK VICTORIOUS IN PRE SEASON TEST VS. CAMDEN
On Saturday 15th September, St. Mary’s played host to the first game of the season for this year’s Division 1 Women in the form of a pre season match up.
As preparations continue and new signings join established players, Team Solent Kestrels faced-off against Camden Panthers, a veteran team that normally plies its trade in the London league.
Both teams started off tentatively in the first quarter, with the Kestrels stuttering to a 1-point deficit in the first, 9-10. In the second quarter Kestrels new American guard Geena Gomez, a former starter at San Diego State, showed her class early getting the Kestrels into the game with a couple of early buckets, before Andrea Kurkowski started to connect from close range. Nevertheless, it was the Panthers who dictated the tempo, led by guard Yamaguchi, who would eventually claim a game-high, 18-points.
The Kestrels regrouped at half-time and entered the third with a renewed sense of intensity on the defensive end, holding the Panthers to just 11-points. It was Estonian newcomer, Kristina Karpova who got hot from the perimeter in the third and dropped 13-points in the second-half. The Panthers kept up their assault in the fourth with balanced scoring from their starters and the bench. However, with big time-outs for both teams in the closing minutes, it was the Kestrels that closed out the game for a 3-point win, 60-57.
Kristina Karpova and Geena Gomez top scored for the Kestrels with 13-points a piece. Yamaguchi led all scorers with 18-points, with the Panthers’ Ascorreta and Lepanen contributing 9-points each.
Head Coach CJ Lee commented after the game; “The result wasn’t important, but its always good to get off the mark with a win. For us we’re dealing with a steep learning curve. We have lots of new faces and bags of talent, but creating discipline and chemistry takes time. Julian and I really like where we’re at given that the season is still a couple of weeks away and I’m excited to see how far this team can go.”
As preparations continue and new signings join established players, Team Solent Kestrels faced-off against Camden Panthers, a veteran team that normally plies its trade in the London league.
Both teams started off tentatively in the first quarter, with the Kestrels stuttering to a 1-point deficit in the first, 9-10. In the second quarter Kestrels new American guard Geena Gomez, a former starter at San Diego State, showed her class early getting the Kestrels into the game with a couple of early buckets, before Andrea Kurkowski started to connect from close range. Nevertheless, it was the Panthers who dictated the tempo, led by guard Yamaguchi, who would eventually claim a game-high, 18-points.
The Kestrels regrouped at half-time and entered the third with a renewed sense of intensity on the defensive end, holding the Panthers to just 11-points. It was Estonian newcomer, Kristina Karpova who got hot from the perimeter in the third and dropped 13-points in the second-half. The Panthers kept up their assault in the fourth with balanced scoring from their starters and the bench. However, with big time-outs for both teams in the closing minutes, it was the Kestrels that closed out the game for a 3-point win, 60-57.
Kristina Karpova and Geena Gomez top scored for the Kestrels with 13-points a piece. Yamaguchi led all scorers with 18-points, with the Panthers’ Ascorreta and Lepanen contributing 9-points each.
Head Coach CJ Lee commented after the game; “The result wasn’t important, but its always good to get off the mark with a win. For us we’re dealing with a steep learning curve. We have lots of new faces and bags of talent, but creating discipline and chemistry takes time. Julian and I really like where we’re at given that the season is still a couple of weeks away and I’m excited to see how far this team can go.”
