Match Reports

 

Ladies win Plate Final with close encounter with Aldworth

 

Date: 13th May 2012

 

Score: Blackhawk Ladies 56 Aldworth 52

 

The Ladies finished their season on a high with a close fought victory over Aldworth in the Wessex Plate Final at Aldershot. With a squad of seven, one of whom was suffering from celebrating too much for  an award at Portsmouth University and another who was suffering a sickness bug, it was always going to be a close match. The first quarter was even at 13 points apiece although at one point Blackhawks had a comfortable eight points advantage. Elaine with a three pointer and another well driven basket, Cat with what looked like a three pointer but was only given as a two pointer, and two baskets from Mitch were the scorers whilst in defence, Mylene and Becca managed to bring down some good rebounds and Mitch was always getting into good positions to thwart the Aldworth attack. However, the opposition number eight was causing damage with some good long distance shooting to peg back the score. The second quarter was close but just edged by Woking 14 – 11. Mitch with an early basket followed by a free throw managed to reduce the score line after two three pointers were sunk by Aldworth. Cat’s all active game, was causing Aldworth some problems and it was fitting that she put away a good basket followed by two free throws from Elaine and another form Katie ensured that the scoreboard kept ticking over for Woking. Late on Becca sunk two more from under the basket.

 

Everything to play for in the second half and Woking did not disappoint. Michelle , Becca and Laura stretched Woking’s advantage to 9 points, and although the opposition were able to claw back some of these, they got into foul trouble and Blackhawks were able to score the majority of their free throws. The score with the final quarter to go was 41 -34. The final quarter was a tense affair as the effects of a hard game was beginning to tell on the Ladies but a cool head towards the end of the quarter by the senior players, despite Katie and Mitch both being fouled out towards the end, ensured that Woking held on for victory by four points. Scorers in the final quarter were Mitch (4), Katie (2), Cat (4), Elaine (4) and Mylene (1). Great defence by Mitch, Mylene and Becca.

 

Top Scorer with 16 points was Mitch. MVP with 38.5 MVP points was also Mitch. She also picked up the MVP Award given by Wessex.

 

Team:  Katie (6), Elaine (15), Cat (8), Mitch (16), Laura (2), Mylene (1), Becca (8)

 

Aztec Storm blows away Ladies

 

Date: 22md April 2012

 

Score: Aztec Storm 56 Blackhawks Ladies 47

 

In what was always going to be a tough game, with a small squad of 7, Blackhawks more than held their own for three quarters but eventually ran out of steam in the final quarter. The stats of the match do a dis-service to the whole team who played with spirit throughout and in no way reflect the way individuals played. The first quarter was a close affair with Aztec just winning it by one point, 13 – 12. Helen scored a great early basket, but 3 scores from under the basket by their strong NL player put Aztec in control. However, Mitch scored a couple of good baskets, positioning herself well for a rebound on one, and driving in for another to level off the scores. Elaine then interspersed scores from Aztec with two three pointers. The second quarter was nip and tuck throughout, with one team score being matched by one from the opposing team. Again Helen opened the scoring, this time with a three pointer, before Mitch scored the first of her six successful free throws out of eight attempts. Laura also scored, whilst Elaine chipped in with three free throws and another basket. Mitch completed the scoring with another six points. Defensively, Woking were having great problems in stopping the opposition number 12 but great rebounding by Mitch and Helen ensured that some semblance of control was there. Half time the score was 30 – 28 in Woking’s favour.

 

The third quarter was again tight with Storm just edging it by three points. Mylene was becoming more prominent and scored from the free throw line as well as converting one of the opportunities in the key. Mitch continued her impressive form under the basket with a further two baskets and two from the free throw line, whilst Laura Day added a second to her tally. Woking continued to fight for every ball with Helen, Mitch, Elaine, Laura D and Mylene all pulling down good rebounds, and assisting and stealing to ensure that Woking kept in the game. Aztec lead by one point going into the final quarter. In the space of the first two minutes of the final quarter, Aztec had extended that lead to 9 clear points as Mitch approached her fifth foul and was unable to contribute as much to the game. Elaine kept on driving the team forward but the team were reduced to attempting too many long shots in an effort to get back into the game and sadly, the final score of 56 – 47 did not reflect the passion and effort put in by all. Special mention should be made of the contribution of Cat who was really unlucky on a number of occasions in not scoring, whilst getting in a position to receive and feed the rest of the teams, whilst Laura S had to sit out a lot of the game but was valuable in containing the opposition when she was on court.

 

MVP and Top Scorer was Mitch who had an outstanding game. 52 MVP points and 20 points scored.

 

Team: Helen (5), Cat, Elaine (16), Mitch (20), Laura S, Mylene (2), Laura D (4)

 

Ladies ease through to Plate Final with victory over Farnborough

 

Date: 19th April 2012

 

Score: Farnborough 35 Blackhawks 73

 

A comprehensive victory was achieved by a good Blackhawks squad away to Farnborough in the semi-finals of the Plate competition. Blackhawks opened up brightly and established an early 14 point advantage with Elaine, Katie and Mitch all scoring good baskets. Midway through the quarter, Farnborough were gifted some opportunities through some silly turnovers and fouls and pulled back nine unanswered points. Towards the end of the period, Blackhawks re-asserted their authority on the game with baskets from Katie, Anna with a three pointer and Mitch. 21 – 9 in favour of Blackhawks at the whistle. In the second quarter, Elaine sank an early free throw, followed by an excellent basket before then claiming her third three pointer of the game. Katie and Catt were shooting at will but were unluck with many of their attempts, whilst Mylene and Mitch started picking up the rebounds, Elaine and Mylene a number of good steals and Laura was causing all manner of problems to the opposition with her bustling aggressive play. Despite a back injury, Anna was everywhere on the court, leaving the opposition to chase shadows on a number of occasions. Mylene and Cat both scored good baskets and half-time was reached with the score at 32 -14.

 

There was no real change in the third quarter with Woking always looking the stronger and better drilled team. But Farnborough never gave up and some of their shots were now hitting the target. Even so, with Mitch in commanding form defensively, Woking still won the quarter by three points with scores from Mitch, Elaine, Mylene and Laura. The final quarter was the best one from a Woking perspective where they outran and out powered and out skilled the opposition to win it by 22 points 5. The final score of 73 – 35 was totally fair, with every player contributing a great deal to the victory.

 

It was a close run thing for MVP between the top scorer (27 points and 5 assists) and the best defender (23 rebounds and two blocks) but Elaine scored 46.5 MVP points, whilst Mitch scored 46 MVP points.

 

Team:  Katie (14), Cat (4), Elaine (27), Anna (3), Mitch (14), Mylene (7), Laura (4)

 

Ladies defeated by Panthers

 

Date: 12th April 2012

 

Score: Winchester Panthers 60 Blackhawks 42

 

There was no disgrace in losing to Winchester with again a weakened team. No stats were done for the game but the whole squad performed with merit and special mention must be made of Catt from the Junior squads who put in a great performance and was not overwhelmed by the opposition.  It was important that the game was played rather than forfeited, as this ensured that Blackhawks gained a point which yet may see them avoiding the dreaded drop.

 

After a good first quarter which was won by Blackhawks by 15 to 8, a disastrous second period ensured that it was always going to be an uphill battle, one which Blackhawks could not close.

 

MVP based on scoring only was Catt with 16.5 points.

 

Team: Helen (9), Helen (4), Catt (13), Hiromi (3), Laura S, Becky (4), Anna (9)

 

 

Ladies light fuse to outplay Rockets

 

Date: 4th April 2012

 

Score: Reading Rockets 34  Blackhawks 89

 

With a strong squad, and fresh from the victories at the Warrior’s Tournament at the weekend, Blackhawk Ladies completely outplayed Reading to gain some revenge for a defeat earlier in the season. Straight from the tip off, Blackhawks dominated the play with a mix of strong defence, fast breaks and good shooting. The first quarter was initially evenly balanced and Reading actually took the lead for the only time in match to lead 6 points to 4, after two early baskets from Becky Mole. However, Elaine slotted home a three pointer to ease the pressure and this was quickly followed with baskets from Mitch and two more from Becky. Anna kept up the scoring with two baskets following her stealing the ball from the opposition on the halfway line, whilst further scores from Becky  and Hannah, saw the end of the quarter reached with Blackhawks a comfortable 15 points advantage. The second quarter was a quieter affair, but Anna, Helen, Hannah, Becky and Elaine all scored baskets to keep the momentum very much in Blackhawks favour. Meanwhile defensively, Becky, Mitch, Laura and Mylene were all ensuring that Reading got no rebounds. Halftime score was Blackhawks 40, Rockets 17.

 

The second half was even more one sided as Blackhawks continued to press at all times. Anna had an outstanding game with steals, and this was matched by the rest of the team. Early on in the third quarter, Reading tried to break out and scored a couple of early baskets. However, undeterred by this, Blackhawks continued to score at regular intervals, with scores from Anna (4 points), Laura (5), Mitch (4), Becky (2), Elaine (9). There was no change in the final quarter as the baskets continued to rain in from the Blackhawks team. The final score was 89 – 34.

 

The whole team deserves credit for the way they played, albeit against a weak opposition. They never stopped running or harrying the opposition into mistakes and for once, the shooting boots were on by more than one player, with seven out of the eight players in the squad contributing to the Blackhawks total. The rebounding by Hanna, Elaine, Becky, Mitch, Mylene and Laura was first class, whilst there was a total of 22 steals by the whole of the team, with Anna leading the way with 8 and she converted 7 of these through the basket.

 

MVP was a close run thing between Elaine, Anna and Mitch. Mitch came out on top with 37 MVP points.  There were joint Top Scorers, Becky and Anna who scored 19 points each, closely followed by Elaine with 18 points. Mitch also scored double figures with 14 points.

 

Team: Helen (6), Hannah (8), Elaine (18), Becky (19), Anna (19), Mitch (14), Mylene, Laura (5).

 

Panthers defeated in Plate by six determined Ladies

 

Date: 22nd March 2012

 

Score:  Blackhawks 41 Panthers 37

 

Having had to concede their last NF Cup game and then travel to Reading with a very weakened squad that resulted in a heavy defeat, the Ladies were not looking forward to the trudge down to Winchester for a late tip-off. The six players who made the trip showed what teamwork can do as they overcame Winchester in the final minute of the game to go through to the semi-finals of the Plate.  The first quarter looked as though it  would follow the pattern of recent games where the ball would not go through the basket. Panthers seemed to be getting on top before Elaine sank a great three pointer to put Blackhawks ahead, a lead that they extended as Laura followed with a three pointer of her own, Anna sank two free throws and Mitch spun around and scored a great basket. Defensively Katie and Mitch were pulling down rebounds, whilst Laura was as energetic as ever putting pressure on the Panthers attack. The second quarter was a disappointing one for the Ladies as Panthers began to gain a grip on the game. Again it was only superb defence that kept Blackhawks nose in front, with the only score in the quarter coming from a basket by Katie.  Anna was beginning to prove a handful for the home defence with a number of drives into the key that did not come to fruition. Suzie and Laura swapped in and out of the game and both contributed to the effort.  Half time was reached with the score at 16 – 14 in Blackhawks favour and on reflection, the defences of both teams were playing brilliantly.

 

The second half proved to be very even and it was anyone’s game. The third quarter went to Blackhawks by three points, whilst Panthers won the fourth by a single point. Scorers for Blackhawks in the third quarter were Elaine with two more three pointers, Mitch who scored from open play and the free throw line, and Anna with two baskets. In the fourth, a run of eight unanswered points put Panthers up by three points but this did not dampen the Blackhawk’s spirit. A good time out called by Katie, refocused the efforts and the team responded with scores from Elaine and Mitch before Elaine sunk her last three pointer of the game to put Blackhawks back in front with a couple of minutes to go. A free throw by Panthers brought the deficit down to one, but Blackhawks kept cool in the last minute as Anna sank two free throws, and Elaine another one. With only eighteen seconds left, it was into defensive mode for the Ladies as they prevented Panthers from scoring.  A great all round team performance.

 

MVP with 35.5 MVP points was Mitch by way of her outstanding rebounding in both defence and offence. Top Scorer was Elaine with 17 points.

 

Team:  Katie (2), Elaine (17), Anna (10), Mitch (9), Laura (3) Suzie

 

 

Two defeats in five days over half-term destroy Ladies ambitions in Founders Cup and League

 

Dates: 14th and 19th February

 

Blackhawks 45 Winchester Panthers 58   and Camden won by a lot in the NF Cup.

 

Yet again over a holiday period, Blackhawks suffered through having to put out weakened teams against opposition who did not seem to have the same problem. No stats were done on either match so the only counting stats is on scorers. Special mention must go to the FIVE players who travelled over to Camden and although soundly beaten, never gave up. A credit to Blackhawks all round.  However, if we are to go into the National League next year, we really will need commitment from all to ensure that we can fulfil our fixtures effectively.

 

Team Vs’ Panthers:   Helen (7), Katie (12), Anna (14), Mylene (2), Olivera, Cath (10), Elena

 

Team V’s Camden:  Helen (4), Cath, Mitch (4), Mylene (2), Laura D (5)

 

Chiltern surprise Ladies with strong squad display

 

Date: 31st January 2012

 

Score:  Blackhawks 47  Chiltern  52

 

The Ladies were confident of beating Chiltern at home to boost their chances of retaining their championship but were well beaten in the end by a strong Chiltern squad of 12, who were powerful and had one match winner at 6 foot 5 inches! Ladies started well and won teh first quarter by six points. In the second quarter, Chiltern introduced their match winner and the Ladies had no plan to stop her powerful sidesteps and shooting. This resulted in a three point deficit during the quarter as the Chiltern coach identified Anna and Elaine as the danger players on Blackhawks team and marked them effectively to stem the basket attempts by them. The second half followed a similar pattern but as is often the case, Blackhawks had a disastrous third quarter where they could only manage just four points whilst the opposition scored 10. There was little effective rebounding by Blackhawks, whilst their shooting showed the signs of desperation. The final quarter again was won by Chiltern although it was a little closer as Elaine hit a couple of three pointers to give Blackhawks some hope of salvaging a result. But it was not to be as Chiltern easily ran down the clock to win by 52 – 47.

 

MVP and Top Scorer was Elaine with 9.5 MVP points and 18 points scored.

 

Team:  Helen (4), Katie (6), Anna (12), Pilar (2), Elaine (18), Catherine (1), Laura (2), Elena, Becca (2)

 

Ladies gain revenge against Solent to gain first Founders Cup victory

 

Date: 21st January 2012

 

Score:  Blackhawks 61 Solent 39

 

With a squad of just seven players, there was deal of trepidation as to how the team would play. Worry ye not! They played with spirit and a great deal of skill to defeat Solent comfortably to gain revenge to the narrow defeat they suffered against the same opponents earlier in the National Founders Cup campaign. Right from the first whistle, Blackhawks showed determination to shoot home a couple of good baskets through Mitch and Anna. Solent hit back to level the scores before Mitch followed up with a good free throw whilst Elaine hit her first three pointer of the game. This did not deter Solent who had a couple of good drives by their offence, one of which was converted. Anna and Elena then scored baskets to establish a six point advantage just before the break, but again Solent reduced the arrears to four points by the end of the quarter. The second quarter was nip and tuck, but Becca and Mitch, along with Elena were now pulling down the rebounds in both attack and defence, whilst Ana, Elaine and Elena and Mitch also were able to score baskets from open play and from the free throw line. Tish and Helen were also having their best games of the season for the first team, whilst Anna and Elaine were able to control plays whilst Mitch was continuing to get into good positions. Half time was reached with the Ladies leading by 21 – 18.  Still everything to play for in the second half.

 

Traditionally, the third quarter has proven to be a problem for the Ladies first team but not on this occasion. With a great deal of skill and inter passing, they mesmerised the opposition and won the quarter by 24 points to 9. Mitch was on fire with rebounding (27 in the game) whilst Anna was anticipating brilliantly to secure 5 steals. Scorers during this quarter were Elaine, Becca, Mitch, and Elena. With the game effectively won, the fourth quarter was less frenetic but Blackhawks were always the better team as Mitch, Helen, Becca, Elaine all scored whilst defensively, the team never looked likely to let their lead slip. Elena, Becca and Mitch continued to rebound effectively, Elaine was able to slow the pace down and Anna was able to drive forward at all opportunities. The final score of 61 – 39 really demonstrated a brilliant team performance by the Ladies to secure their first National founders Cup victory. 

 

MVP with an outstanding 48 MVP points was Mitch whilst Top Scorer was also Mitch with 18 points, closely followed by Elaine with 17.

 

Team: Helen (2), Tish, Elaine (17), Anna (12), Mitch (18), Elena (6), Becca (6)

 

Ladies blow away the Storm

 

Date: 17th January 2011

 

Score: Blackhawks 62  Aztec Storm 44

 

Ladies 1 scored a comprehensive win against the strong Aztec Storm team which currently is second in the Wessex League. Right from the start, Blackhawks hit the ground running with an outstanding first quarter. Strong defensively as a unit, and taking the scoring opportunities when they came along, meant that Storm were finding it difficult to compete. The score at the end of the first quarter was 24 – 7 in Blackhawks favour, and the pressure was maintained in the second quarter as Blackhawks continued to put away the opportunities when they came along to increase the lead to a comfortable 22 points at the break. Yet again, in the third quarter, Ladies 1 were unable to sustain the pressure and Storm eased back into the game  to reach the end of the quarter only 13 points behind.  In the final quarter, Blackhawks raised their game again and ran out comfortable winners by 62 – 44.

 

From feedback the whole Team deserves paraise. Katie had her best game of the season by far, and definitely had her shooting boots on whilst playing some great defence. Anna drove in well and created space on offence, whilst also undertaking some brilliant steals. Laura Day was strong in defence and positioning well, also strong driving in. Elena, with her height, shocked the opposition playing at Guard and whilst she got into some great positions, she was very unlucky with her shooting attempts. Elaine remained calm and as per usual was great under pressure, communicating in defence and also sinking her trade mark three pointers. Becca was strong on rebounding and disrupting the opposition’s attacks, whilst Pilar had a great driving game and fast breaks and established a good teamwork with Anna. Mylene used her height to great advantage and was dominant in the centre of the zone and provided great covering in defence. Mitch as ever pulled down a number of good rebounds and also did a couple of her trademark blocks (and also her trademark last ditch foul!) whilst also positioning herself well in offence.

 

The intensity of the whole team during the game was a joy and the team work ensured that a dangerous team was well beaten.

 

MVP was Katie with 39.5 MVP points and she was also top scorer with 28 points.

 

Team:  Helen, Katie (28), Anna (10), Pilar(7), Elaine (11), Mylene, Mitch (6), Laura D, Elena, Becca

 

Revenge is sweet for Ladies against Rockets

 

Date: 10th January 2012

 

Score: Blackhawks 46 Reading Rockets 33

 

Reading turned up for the match with a similar team to the Cup match played the previous week, with the exception of their National League MVP. This made the difference as the Ladies put their run of losses behind them. Initially it looked as though the game would be quite close but Woking were able to apply some good pressure in the first quarter to establish a six point advantage at the first break. Woking were taking every opportunity to take shots at the basket but too many went wide of the target. However, with Pilar and Elaine control the mid-court, and Mylene being strong in defence, reading were always struggling. In the second quarter, Reading fought back well and Woking had to play well to stem their attacks as the lead was whittled back to just three points at the half-time break. The Reading Coach put a strong player on Elaine whose three point attempts became limited and she was forced to concede a number of turnovers.

 

After early pressure from Reading in the third quarter that saw them take the lead, Woking fought back well following a time out, and carried the game to Reading. In this quarter, Hannah was making a lot of space for herself and was able to put away some good baskets. Meanwhile Katie, who was having a quiet game by her normal standards, also hit some good shots whilst Mylene, Elena and Becca were taking a number of good rebounds, although Reading remained dangerous under the basket. A seven point advantage going into the final quarter was too close for comfort, but throughout the final quarter, Woking controlled the game with energetic displays from Pilar and Laura, strong defensive tactics from Mylene, fast breaks by Hannah and a cool head from Elaine. The final result was a comfortable thirteen point advantage for Woking to avenge their cup exit last week.

 

MVP was Hannah with 19 MVP points (Mylene had 16.5) whilst top scorer was Elaine with 12 points.

 

Team: Helen (2), Katie (8), Hannah (10), Pilar (8), Elaine (12), Laura D, Mylene (4), Elena (2), Becca

 

Ladies Blitzed by East Kent

 

Date: 7th January 2012

 

Score: Blackhawks 39 East Kent Blitz 77

 

The Ladies poor run of form continued in the Founders Cup when they were destroyed by East Kent, mainly due to a sub-standard display in the third quarter which was lost by 24 points. The first quarter was a relatively close one despite the close attention of the East Kent defence limiting scoring opportunities for Blackhawks. An early score from the opposition was matched with a good basket from Hannah, although immediately Woking fell behind again before Anna reduced the arrears and Elaine put Woking in front for the only time in the game with a long range effort hitting the target. Undeterred, Blitz stormed back to take control of the game and establish a six point advantage, despite scores from Katie from the free throw line and another good basket from Anna. Mitch then added the from the free throw line, followed by another one from Anna. The East Kent Team ended the quarter leading by 17 – 14. The second quarter was again close and it was only the lack of good rebounding under the basket that prevented Woking from getting back in the game. The opposition, all of whom were accurate with their shots were quick, defensively sound and strong under the basket despite the best efforts of Woking’s defence. Elaine scored a good three pointer, and Katie were the only scorers for Blackhawks in open play during the quarter, although Mitch maintained her 100% record from free throws and Ann also deposited the ball through the basket twice from free throws. Half-time was reached with East Kent extending their advantage to 12 points.

 

The third quarter proved to be a disaster for Woking as turnover after turnover was conceded early on that resulted in 14 unanswered points, Blitz now being out of sight. Heads dropped and despite a wonderful three pointer from Cath, the efforts from Woking were falling well mshort of their targets.  Blitz continued to push hard and scored at will as the deficit crept up to over 30 points. Anna scored a late consolation basket but the quarter ended with a score of 67 – 31 in favour of East Kent. The final quarter was closer as Coach Parry rallied the team and for most of it, there was little to choose between the sides.  Scores for Blackhawks were Anna, Becca and two baskets from Hannah but East Kent played within themselves to end up winners by 77 – 39.

 

Becca and Mitch tried desperately to quell the offensive efforts from the opposition and pulled down a number of good rebounds, whilst Anna tried to burst her way through on a number of occasions. However, with a total count of 22 turnovers, and scoring only eight times from inside the key from 46 attempts, the pressure was bound to tell.

 

MVP was Mitch with 13.2 MVP points whilst Anna was Top Scorer with 14 points.

 

Team: Helen, Katie (4), Hannah (6), Elaine (6), Anna (14), Cath (3), Mitch (4), Becca (2)

 

Rockets light the fuse to blow up Ladies hopes in Wessex Cup

 

Date: 3rd January 2012

 

Score: Blackhawks 41  Reading Rockets 44

 

Blackhawks hopes of taking the Wessex Cup were dashed as a strong Rockets team defeated them by three points. This was a disappointing result for Ladies 1 as on paper they had a what looked on paper a strong side with the return from University of Suzi, Hannah, Becky and Mitch although the latter was making her comeback after six weeks following the breaking of her elbow. Woking started slowly allowing the opposition to gain the early advantage and whilst there were many attempts to score, the chances were not taken as everyone had an off day. The score at the end of the quarter was 9 – 4 in Rockets favour. The second quarter followed a similar pattern but Woking managed to scrape it by two points so the deficit at half time was just three points.  Still everything to play for and hopes were high When the game opened up and Woking at last put together some enterprising moves, and more importantly, finished off with scores. Becky, Mitch and Becca were pulling down a number of rebounds which also helped.  The end of the third quarter was reached with Woking now leading by five points.  This was extended to seven early on in the final quarter, but then Woking imploded and let Reading back into the match with a couple of silly turnovers and failure to mark the opposition tightly. The lead evaporated and some poor decisions towards the end of the game ensured that Reading ran out as winners.

 

MVP was Mitch, despite her not scoring but rebounding and steals made up for this. Elaine was top scorer with 22 points.

 

Team: Suzi, Katie (9), Hannah, Pilar (6), Elaine (22), Becky (4), Cath , Mitch, Laura D, Elena, Becca

 

 

Camberley easily defeat weakened Ladies 1

 

Date: 11th December 2011

 

Score: Blackhawks 37  Camberley Golden Eagles 64

 

With a weakened squad due to unavailability and injury, Ladies 1 were no match for the return fixture with Camberley who continue to push on towards the League title.  Team could not recover from a poor first quarter which saw Camberley build a 12 point advantage. They overran Woking for the 2nd and 3rd quarters before Woking scraped the final quarter.  Top scorer was Cath with 14 points, whilst MVP on stats available was also Cath  with 17.5MVP points.

 

Team: Helen (6), Anna, Elaine (9), Hiromi (4), Cath (14), Mylene, Laura S, Becca (4).

 

 

Beavers beaten again

 

Date: 6th December 2011

 

Score: Blackhawks 64 Woodley Beavers 45

 

In an entertaining game, Blackhawks Ladies continued their impressive form against Woodley Beavers and despite a poor second quarter, comfortably defeated the opposition. The late withdrawal of Sabine due to illness did not cause any major headaches as the rest of the squad all played their part in a good victory. After falling behind early, Blackhawks responded with a free throw by Mylene followed quickly by baskets from both Elaine and Katie. Katie in fact grew in confidence and slotted home another good basket, followed by a three pointer, a feat she repeated later on in the quarter as Blackhawks dominated the play and hustled the opposition who got into foul trouble as a result. Becca was impressive in defence at this point whilst Pilar was playing her usual energetic game. Mylene also looked impressive under the basket as she also picked up two baskets whilst when Helen came onto court, she took every opportunity to put pressure on Beavers shaky defence and also was able to hit the target. The score at the end of the quarter was easily won by Blackhawks by 21 to 8. The second quarter was a flat one with Blackhawks finding that scoring was not quite so easy. Turnovers were being conceded and many attempts failed to reach the target. This gave heart to Woodley who pegged back the score and at one point had the deficit down to just three points. A good time out called by Coach Parry, tightened up the defence and refocused the Blackhawks team, and resulted in a three pointer from Elaine before Pilar scored a good basket just before the end of the quarter, which was won by Beavers by a clear four points.

 

Blackhawks raised their game in the second half and won both quarters, the third comfortably, and the fourth by just two points as they relaxed knowing that victory was theirs. In the third, Helen joined the three point club with a great basket, and she followed this up with another of regulation baskets. Katie continued her impressive shooting on the day with three further baskets, whilst Becca, who defensively continued to thwart Woodley, at last scored from under the basket. Elena put her height to good effect to tip away a number of attempts by Woodley, whilst the rest of the team passed the ball well as Blackhawks stamped their authority on a tiring Woodley team. The final quarter was nip and tuck, with both teams now playing open basketball as a result leaving opportunities to score at both ends. Elaine hit a couple of three pointers that were well setup by the rest of team, Katie continued her best game of the season by slotting home another three pointer and two more scores, whilst Becca running through was fouled as she scored a great basket, Helen also hit another two pointer, whilst Elena also joined the scoring with the last two baskets of the quarter. Laura, Mylene  and Pilar continued to do a lot of hard work to ensure that Woking remained on top whilst Elaine calmed down the team when it was needed. A good victory was achieved in what was an entertaining and good natured game.   

 

MVP and Top Scorer was Katie, with 34 MVP points and 27 points scored.

 

Team: Helen (11), Katie (27), Pilar (2), Elaine (11), Laura Day, Mylene (5), Elena (4), Becca (4)

 

Second Founders Cup Defeat for Ladies

 

Date: 26th November 2011

 

Score: Blackhawks 28 Camden 66

 

With another scratch squad, the Blackhawks Ladies continued their Founders Cup fixtures with a match against a well drilled team from Camden. Despite a valiant effort by the team, they were overwhelmed and lost the game by a clear margin. The first half was difficult as the new players to the team tried to gel with the experience of Katie and Elaine and it was only down to four three pointers by Elaine that kept the margin down to just 14 points at the break. Enthusiastic play by Anna went unrewarded as the opposition anticipated the plays from Blackhawks and were able to steal and intercept many promising Blackhawks moves. Elena made a number of tip always from under the basket but unfortunately the ball always seemed to end up in the opposition hands. Laura Day tried hard but was up against taller players, whilst Sabine got into foul trouble having accumulated four fouls by the end of the quarter which limited Coach Parry’s options in the second half. Other scores in the half were Katie and Anna.

 

The second half followed the same pattern, although Elena was having more success from rebounds than in the first half, being able to hang on to the ball rather than tip it away. Katie tried regularly to score but it was one of the days where the ball would not drop for her, whilst other shots from the team rolled around the rim of the basket. In all, only eight points were accumulated in the second half as Camden pulled away. Leah had a couple of good drives without converting the effort into points, and the only scores in the half came from two free throws from Elaine, one from Helen, a good basket from Anna and a final three pointer for Elaine. Camden were deserved winners on the day by 66 to 28.

 

MVP with 16.7 MVP points. Top scorer was also Elaine with 17 points.

 

Team:  Helen (1), Katie (5), Elaine (17), Anna (5), Sabine, Leah, Laura, Elena

 

Great team effort wins against Chiltern

 

Date: 20th November 2011

 

Score:  Chiltern 55  Blackhawks 60

 

It is becoming a theme for the ladies 1 squad that the team is made up of representatives of all other female squads.  This was no exception with players from the Ladies 1, Towers, u16s NL and u14s NL squads taking part.  It is also a recurring theme that players are struggling to find the venue (it was foggy) and two of the starting five arrive just in time for the tip-off.

 

All of that said it didn’t seem to make any difference to the Blackhawks who started the stronger of the two teams pulling out a seven point lead after 5 minutes with scores from Becca, Elaine (including trade mark 3 pointer) and Mylene.  However, Chiltern clawed their way back into the game narrowing the gap to just one point before Katie stepped up at the end of the quarter to stop the rot.  This was definitely the pattern of the game; Blackhawks pulling out a good lead and Chiltern pulling back.  The quarter ended 12-13 to Blackhawks.  The second quarter started with scores from katie and another 3 from Elaine followed by an amazing back cut from Helen to get open under the basket and make the score. Strong defence from Becca, Mylene and Laura was also stopping the opposition from scoring.  This time Blackhawks pulled out to a 10 point lead only for Chiltern to drag it back to only four points difference at the half (28 – 32).

 

The second half started with the same pattern as the two previous quarters, the Blackhawks pulled out to an 8 point lead with another 3 from Elaine and a great 3 point play (and 1) from Mylene.  Once again Chiltern came back and this time pulled out a one point lead before Cathryn sank a critical outside shot to give Blackhawks a one point lead ending the 3rd quarter.  The final quarter saw the debut in the Ladies 1 team of u14s girl’s player Leah Parry.  Working along side Elaine at the front of the zone the defence was tight but she had the biggest impact on offence with a drive inside and a great assist to Mylene open under the basket.  With the teams trading baskets and the scores tied at 50-50 Katie drove inside for the shot and was fouled.  Fortunately she got the shot off and made the basket plus the free throw giving the Blackhawks a 3 point lead.  Chiltern pulled back a point before cathryn stepped up again and sank a fantastic outside shot to give the Ladies a 4 point lead.  However, once again Chiltern came back with two scores to tie the game 55-55.  It was going to take one final push by the ladies to win the game.  As ever Katie stepped up and put away an outside shot, and then with just over a minute to play Mylene drove inside to score and draw the foul.  Sinking the free throw gave Blackhawks a 5 point lead.  Elaine and Cathryn then ran down the clock on the next two plays to give Blackhawks a much deserved win.

 

MVP: we didn’t have anyone taking stats but Becca, Mylene, Laura and Katie were awesome under the basket getting the rebounds and fantastic defence at the top of the key from Elaine, Cathryn, Helen and Leah.  This truly was a great team effort.

 

Top Scorers were Elaine with 21 and Katie with 18.

 

Team: Helen (2), Katie (18), Elaine (21), Cathryn (6), Leah, Mylene (9), Laura, Becca (4)

 

 

First Founders Cup Game ends in Defeat

 

Date: 21st October 2011

 

Score:  Solent  56  Blackhawks 52

 

A much weakened Ladies 1 squad put up a terrific fight against Solent but the match all hinged on the first quarter which was easily won by the opposition. After this, Blackhawks narrowly won two other quarters, whilst tying the third. Minus a number of regular first teamers, Coach Parry drafted in two players from the Junior Squads, Cathryn and Molly, but both displayed confidence in moving up the big step to senior basketball. The first quarter, after an early basket from Cathryn, was all about the Solent number 14, a tall, powerful East European player. She dominated the play and put away a number of baskets whilst overwhelming the smaller Blackhawk players. All the rebounds were falling to Solent but luckily for Blackhawks, not all were taken advantage of. A lot of turnovers were also conceded by Woking in this first quarter as the newer players to the team got used to the pace and intensity of the game. Becca and Mitch managed to score a couple of baskets to keep Woking in the game. The quarter finished with a 14 – 6 lead by Solent. In the second quarter, Blackhawks found their game and started taking the game to the opposition. Good rebounding by Mitch, Mylene and Becca assisted in limiting follow up opportunities for Solent and gradually, Blackhawks started pressurising the Solent defence. Two baskets by Mitch and one by Molly rattled the opposition and when Cathryn put away a superb three pointer, followed by a basket from Tish and another by Cathryn, half time was reached with the home team leading by 25 to 19.

 

The third quarter was nip and tuck throughout and at long last Katie, after a number of attempts in the first half, hit the back of the net with two baskets, whilst Molly was becoming more confident as the game wore on, also scored. Unfortunately, Blackhawks were forced into conceding some fouls as the powerful attackers from Solent forced their way into the key that resulted in a number of free throws being scored. However, as Solent looked to be getting back on top, Cathryn again scored and right on the whistle, Mylene popped in her first basket of the day. The score at the end of the quarter was 35 – 29 in Solent’s favour but ther was still everything to play for in the final session. Early pressure from Solent resulted in them extending their lead to 10 points, but a basket from Mitch stemmed the flow. Mylene then hit her best form of the match and was combining well with the rest of the team. Woking had to be on their mettle in defence and a number of great rebounds were taken by Mylene, Becca and Mitch, whilst there were also some good interceptions by Cathryn and Molly. However, having secured the ball, too often it was then gifted back to the opposition. Mylene scored 5 baskets in the quarter, whilst Tish, Mitch and another three pointer from Cathryn reduced the arrears to four points. Despite a gallant effort at the end, Blackhawks were unable to score the two baskets that were required to take the game into over time. The game ended with Solent feeling lucky to have survived.

 

MVP: Mitch with 35 MVP points (Mylene was second with 26). Top Scorers were Cathryn and Mylene, both scoring 12points.

 

Team: Helen, Katie (8), Tish (4), Molly (4), Cathryn (12), Mitch (10), Mylene (12), Becca (2)

 

 

Golden Eagles swoop to victory

 

Date: 18th October 2011

 

Score:  Blackhawks 56  Camberley Golden Eagles 64

 

In a top of the table clash, Camberley proved to be the stronger squad and despite a good fight by Blackhawks, they ran out of steam in the final quarter. Early pressure by Camberley, was counteracted by two three pointers by Elaine and Sabine as Blackhawks showed great grit againt the Eagles. Moving ahead by 6 points to 2, it looked as though the Ladies may pull off a surprise against the newly formed Golden Eagles. However, the quality of play and ability of the opposition, saw Camberley fight back to take the lead. Elaine then came to Blackhawks rescue sinking two more trademark three pointers, before Camberley came back again as Blackhawks were struggling to get the rebounds. Pilar scored an excellent basket before the closure of quarter which was immediately followed up by yet another long range effort from Elaine. With seconds left, a silly turnover gifted a basket right on the whistle resulting in quarter ending with Blackhawks leading by for clear points. The second quarter started badly for Woking as the powerful breaks by Camberley proved too much for the defence, and Camberley retook the lead. Katie managed a basket to stem the tide of points against, whilst Becca scored her first points of the game with a good follow up rebound and shot. However, Camberley extended their advantage to six points before the persistence of Sabine resulted in a good basket. Again the lead was extended by Camberley to eight points but the heart of Blackhawks showed through as first Elaine, and then not to be outdone, Pilar both scored three pointers and Helen decided to take a risk with a long shot that also found the basket and suddenly it was back to game on as the scores were level. However, as Blackhawks tried to run down the clock, again they handed the ball back to Camberley who took full advantage with another basket right on the whistle. Half time was reached with the score at 36-34 in Camberley’s advantage.

 

The third quarter was evenly contested with each team scoring 16 points apiece, but the signs were there that Camberley were beginning to raise their game. Scorers for Blackhawks in this quarter were Elaine who scored her sixth three pointer of the game, Becca with a basket and a free throw, Katie with two baskets, Helen with two free throws and Pilar with another two baskets. The final quarter was mostly Camberley’s as they made their experience of playing as a team count. Woking’s chances were limited and Elaine, Katie and Sabine were the only scorers as the opposition took the quarter by 12 points to 6. Despite some great rebounding by Becca and some enthusiastic play from the rest of the team, Golden Eagles played down the clock to record a victory. They will no doubt be the team to challenge for the title this year.

 

MVP and Top Scorer was Elaine with 25 MVP points and 20 points scored.

 

Team:  Katie (8), Helen (5), Pilar (11), Elaine (20), Sabine (7), Mylene, Jenny, Becca (5)

 

 

Beavers well beaten by Ladies 1

 

Date: 9th October 2011

 

Score:  Woodley Beavers 50  Blackhawks 66

 

Against one of the title challengers of last year, Blackhawk Ladies fought out a good victory on Sunday. This was always going to be a tough encounter but inspirational play by Mitch who came up from Portsmouth to help out, and the experience of Elaine and Katie, ensured that the victory was won. They were ably supported by the rest of the team, with Pilar putting in an energetic performance, Becca whose rebounding became so important as the game wore on, Sabine who put away some key baskets as the team tired towards the end, and Laura and Helen who came on at critical times and more than held their own.

 

The first quarter, after building up a five point advantage, just belonged to Blackhawks who edged it by one point. Mitch scored 5 points in the quarter, whilst Elaine slotted home her first three pointer of the day early in the quarter. Katie also found the basket, but a revival by Beavers meant that the score was 13 – 12 in favour of Blackhawks at the end of the quarter. An outstanding second quarter by Blackhawks ensured that Beavers were going to have to put in something special if they were to rescue the game. Eleven unanswered points at the start of the quarter was the key, with Elaine agin hitting the net with a three pointer and another basket, Katie and Mitch both scoring from inside the key, and Mitch putting away two free throws.  Beavers were not giving in without a fight, but some stout defensive work by the whole team limited their opportunities to reply. Becca and Mitch were reacting well to ensure that the threat was minimised through taking rebound after rebound. Elaine and Katie took the opportunity to shoot from long range and Elaine again slotted home another three pointer before Sabine popped upo near the end to put away two good baskets. Half time was reached with Blackhawks leading by 31 points to 18.

 

The third quarter was again a close affair with Beavers nicking it by a point as they fought hard to get back in the game. Scorers for Blackhawks early in the quarter were Sabine, Katie who scored a three pointer of her own and Elaine as Blackhawks established a clear seventeen point advantage, but Beavers gradually chipped away and despite Elaine scoring again from long range, as did Helen, they had succeeded in reducing the arrears to 12 points by the end of the quarter.  In the final quarter, despite an early basket by Sabine, Beavers continued their fight back and got the deficit down to nine points before Sabine scored again. This did not deter Beavers as a clearly tiring Blackhawks team started to give away some turnovers or missed clear opportunities. Katie manged to sink another three pointer to take the pressure off and Sabine continued with her rich vein of form under the basket, whilst Becca and Mitch were again outstanding in defence. Elaine was showing a cool head as the pressure mounted and slowed the game down. Towards the end of the match, Mitch again showed her versatility with an outstanding block, followed up by some impressive driving at the basket, along with some good follow up rebounds as she slotted home the last four baskets of the match to ensure Blackhawks secured the win.

 

MVP was Mitch with an outstanding 46 MVP points. She was also top scorer with 19 points.

 

Team:  Katie (17), Pilar, Elaine (16), Helen (2), Sabine (12), Mitch (19), Laura, Becca  

 

 

Ladies 1 start with victory over Panthers

 

Date: 5th October 2011

 

Score: Blackhawks 48 Winchester Panthers 45

 

A squad made up of many new faces from the victorious team of last year, the Ladies first team managed to grind out a win against Winchester. It was obvious from the start of the game, that it would take time for the new team to gel, but fine performances from the whole team meant that in a close encounter, they were able to keep pressure on when it mattered. Some opportunities were missed but at key moments, someone popped up with a good rebound or three pointer.  The first quarter was narrowly won by 11 – 8, but Panthers came back strongly in the second and ended up six points clear at the break. However, Blackhawks kept their composure and managed to draw level by the end of the third quarter with the score at 34 points apiece. The final quarter was nip and tuck, until Elaine slot in another trade mark three pointer to clinch victory.

 

The whole team deserves mention but Hiromi whilst on court was full of energy and managed to secure a number of rebounds and steals, whilst also providing others with opportunities at basket. Sabine was also effective providing three assists, Becca, Laura and Mylene also were evident with their defensive rebounding whilst Elaine had an outstanding game with her shooting and steals, whilst offering experience to the others in the crucial final minute.

 

Top scorer was Elaine with 26 points. She was also MVP with 20.5 points.

 

Team:  Katie (4), Hiromi (4), Pilar, Elaine (26), Helen (3), Sabine (4), Mylene (2), Laura, Becca (6).