After storming into the State Basketball League’s top eight, Mandurah Magic women’s team coach Randy Miegel said his side now needs to capitalise on their opportunity and cement their place among the finals contenders.
The Magic was elevated to seventh on the SBL ladder after defeating the sixth-placed Lightning 77-67 on Saturday night.
Coach Miegel said his side had achieved a great milestone by cracking into the league’s upper echelon, but would need to consolidate its place in the coming weeks.
“The girls have given themselves a huge opportunity to play in the finals, but we need to keep playing well to make sure we stay in contention,” he said.
“We’re still only a couple losses away from being outside the eight, so we need to continue to play a strong brand of basketball.”
The Magic held off a number of charges from a persistent Lightning outfit to claim their seventh win of the season.
Mandurah started the game well, narrowly winning the first and second quarters to take a seven-point lead into half time.
Lakeside responded by coming within a point of Mandurah’s lead, but the Magic was able to fend off the pursuers and take a 10-point win.
Miegel said he was impressed by his side’s composure and ability to close out the game.
“There were a few times that the Lightning really challenged us, so it was good to see the girls keep a level head and come away with a win,” he said.
The Magic has won three of their past five matches and is now beginning to challenge and defeat more quality opponents.
Miegel attributed his side’s strong rise in form to a number of factors, including improved execution and confidence.
“We’re working better as a team and each player is beginning to understand their role within the team a little more with each game,” he said.
“Our shooting percentages have also lifted, which is really pleasing to see.”
The Magic is also receiving a more even spread of contributions from players.
Against Lakeside, Emma Klasztorny produced her second consecutive double-double by tallying 22 points and 11 rebounds.
She was joined in her big night on the court by Adijat Adams (17 points, six rebounds), Annette Davis (14 points, six rebounds), Casey Mihovilovich (nine points, five rebounds, seven assists) and Rachel Halleen (nine points, five rebounds).
“It’s really encouraging to have so many players offering strong contributions on the court,” coach Miegel said.
“It’s makes us more versatile and makes us harder to defend.”
The Magic now face another tough test when they come up against Perth on the road this Friday night.
Coach Miegel said his side needed to bring the same intensity they have been playing with if they are to topple the Redbacks, who sit in fifth on the ladder.
“We’ll approach the game very similarly to how we’ve been approaching games in recent weeks,” he said.
“Obviously you still have to put some time and focus into the opposition team’s game, but we want to play our style of basketball so that’s how we’ll approach it.
Tip-off for the match is scheduled for 6.30pm at Belmont Oasis.
Justin Rake
Sports journalist for the Mandurah Mail, Australian Community Media, Fairfax Media.
Sports journalist for the Mandurah Mail, Australian Community Media, Fairfax Media.
