Rollercoaster results as Lady Supercats hit the road
THE Geelong Lady Supercats came away with a win and a loss in their “tough” road trip games against Sydney Uni Sparks and Ballarat Rush at the weekend.
It was a Friday night to forget for the Lady Supercats, after another delayed flight and poor preparation left coach David Herbert disappointed in his side’s effort losing 82-79 to the Sparks — a team they defeated in Round 1.
“We learnt a lesson in terms of preparation ... I just don’t think we were really E.Braslis 25 points, E.Rolph 18, A.Duck 16, I.Brancatisano 13 Friday, Bryden’s Stadium switched on,” Herbert said.
“We didn’t play as hard as we normally do and we didn’t adjust to things. I was pretty disappointed in our game.”
Eve Braslis was a shining light putting in another promising performance shooting 25 points with 68.8 per cent in field-goal percentage.
Desperate to spark a response, Herbert questioned the Lady Supercats’ effort during the game in order to spark a reaction, but said their poor defensive effort was the difference in the end.
“I was probably a bit harsh on the group. I was trying to get more out of them and maybe I went the wrong way with it,” Herbert said.
“We shot at 57 per cent and scored 79 points but defensively we just weren’t aggressive, we weren’t active and that was the disappointing part.”
The Lady Supercats responded the following night, with an emphatic 84-67 victory over Ballarat, led by Isa Brancatisano, who lifted to put up 20 points and nine assists.
Herbert said it was pleasing to get the response in the Ballarat game and hopes the weekend rollercoaster will be learning curve for his side.
“I couldn’t speak any higher of the group, we had a big chat after the (Sydney) game,” he said.
“The mindset and the effort was at another level so I’m pleased that everyone took in what happened and everyone was prepared and ready to go.
“We didn’t have passengers in Ballarat, we had a full team effort and it was tremendous to see.”
The Lady Supercats will be tested by another dual-game road trip in Tasmania next weekend, and should be buoyed by the additions of recruits Daniela Wallen and Chelsea, who will finally be added to the roster — a timely arrival for Herbert’s group.
“We’re excited about getting them. It certainly bolsters our roster with size,” Herbert said.
“I think it gives us extra options.
“We add a WNBA player and Venezuelan who’s played internationally. I think it’s exciting.”