Perth Phoenix faced Glasgow City as the Women’s Under 16 Playoff Final began the second day of action at Oriam. City faced a tough task, with Phoenix hoping to finish the season unbeaten and complete the SBC treble.
It was a fairly even start to the first quarter with both teams scoring regularly. A three from Ellla Doherty – one of many as she netted 38 points and claimed the title of MVP – opened up a five point lead for Perth, which they briefly extended to seven. Glasgow finished the quarter strongly, reducing the gap to a single point as the quarter ended 18-17.
Glasgow City maintained the momentum from the first quarter and had the chance to take the lead with two free throws. Both attempts were missed, however the rebound was netted and City took the lead for the first time in the game. It wasn’t long before Perth regained the lead, however City quickly drew level again in an end-to-end encounter.
Perth regained control and again opened up a seven point lead. City reduced the lead to three as they looked to replicate the mini comeback achieved in quarter one, however a 3 from Rebecca Jackson, arguably the basket of the half, opened up the advantage again as Perth went into the break 42-36.
City took just seven seconds to basket as they started the third quarter with electric pace. Within three minutes it was all square at 44-44 before City took the lead for the second time in the game with the next two baskets. Both teams then exchanged the lead several times as the game provided great entertainment for all those in attendance. Two late baskets from Phoenix allowed the side to take a 58-56 lead into the final quarter.
With their unbeaten record on the line, Perth started the fourth well but with five minutes left to play it was still just a two point game (64-62). Two baskets from Taryn Cummins extended Phoenix’s lead before a timeout was called. Phoenix continued to apply pressure and netted two unanswered baskets to put the Final out of City’s sight, holding a 12 point advantage with just two minutes to play (74-62).
The buzzer sounded at 76-63 and Perth Phoenix proceeded to lift the Women’s U16 Playoff trophy. The team ended 2018/19 with a treble – cup, league and playoffs – and a perfect record.
