Swain steers Flames to huge win over Geelong

The Sydney Flames returned to the winner’s circle in a big way on Saturday night, smashing Geelong United 90-55 at Quaycentre – in the first-ever WNBL match-up between the two sides.

Match summary 

Sydney jumped out of the block in the first quarter, with Shaneice Swain and Emma Clarke combining to score the first seven points. From there, Cayla George, Carla Pitman, Isabella Brancatisano and Yemiyah Morris chipped in, as the Hoops Capital side led by 11 after one.

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The second term was a closer affair, with both teams exchanging baskets. Former Flame Keely Froling did all she could for the visitors but they still lost the term 20-17 and trailed by 14 at the main break.

The third quarter belonged to Guy Molloy’s side, who outscored their rivals 25-5, thanks to a barrage of triples by Celeste Taylor, George, Clarke and Swain.

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In the fourth, the harbour city side cruised to a 35-point victory, with one of the highlights being Flame #239 Caitlyn Martin scoring her first basket in the WNBL.

Where the match was decided 

Sydney secured the win thanks to superior field goal percentage (47-26), assists (24-10), blocks (9-1), bench points (30-10) and fast-break points (20-10) – while also hitting 18-3 shots from downtown.

Key moment  

A strong first quarter laid the foundations for the win but the amazing 25-5 third sealed it for the Flames.

Player of the game 

Swain was the standout once again for the Flames, hitting seven triples on her way to 25 points, to go along with five assists, five steals and two rebounds.

Others in double-figures included Clarke (14), Morris (14, who also had 10 rebounds and four blocks) and George (13).

What’s next 

The Flames, who are now 2-4, remain home to host Perth on Saturday, December 7 at Quaycentre – tipping off at 4.45pm. 

Tickets to the round six clash are still available here.