Recap

Eagles were taking on the Lancashire Spinners this week for their second home game of the season. Spinners came into the game undefeated in their first three games therefore the Eagles knew this would be a tough test.

A strong start by the Eagles saw them take a quick 4-0 lead after forcing a couple of turnovers from the Spinners. They hit straight back though with a strong drive to the basket for a three point play with the foul. Both teams were playing aggressively defensively which meant a lot of fouls and turnovers were being caused. Both teams struggled to convert from the free throw line with the scoring going back and forth before the Eagles finished the quarter strong and were up 12-5 after the first.

Foul trouble for the Eagles and injuries forced them into a few changes in the second quarter. Spinners took advantage of this and hit a few shots at the start of the second which brought them back within 3. The Eagles regained their composure however to further extend their lead. It was a competitive game with both teams hitting tough shots. Eagles kept going on small runs to extend their lead before Spinners would immediately go on a run of their own to get back in the game. At the half the Eagles were leading 24-21.

The third quarter was much of the same with the Eagles continuously extending their lead and the Spinners going on runs to close the gap. Both teams were playing more composed in the second half with the turnovers going down. At the end of the quarter it was the Spinners turn to struggle with foul trouble and injuries however the Eagles couldn’t take advantage and went into the last quarter with a small 37-36 lead.

With all to play for in the fourth, the scores went back and forth before the Eagles extended their lead 48-42. However, like in the rest of the game the Spinners hit straight back and got within 2 with 3 minutes remaining. The Eagles didn’t panic and managed however to go on a final run to close out the game with a 58-50 win.

It was an extremely competitive game with both teams showing intensity on defence and the scores going back in forth. The Eagles led for the whole of the game however the Spinners kept closing the gap to make it an exciting game for all involved. This win put the Eagles momentarily top of the league before the Sunday games. Next week they take on a very strong Manchester team away who are currently 4-0 for the season.

Scorers: Lauren Bird & Yemisi Mefful – 12 points, Olivia Weymes & Izzy Jonas – 8 points