Third straight win for Starlites
Gzira Athleta Starlites GIG (13-21, 12-12, 10-18, 12-14) 47 65
The latest victims to Starlites’ league forays were Athleta who fell to their second defeat in three matches. Starlites are out in front on three straight victories.
The two sides were facing each other for the first time this season. Athleta were in front more than once at first but when they fell behind they had to chase their opponents for the remainder of the encounter.
Athleta were still without Beverlee Zammit back from abroad but unwell and skipper Leanne Duncan made her warm up with her team mates but stayed on the bench. Starlites had Danielle Agius and Emma Magrin missing with Kim Pirotta and Diane Revol in the team.
Antoinette Borg made an early trey for Athleta but so did Kirsty Galea for Starlites. Athleta led on three occasions but then Starlites made up a long 13-0 run as Jean Doughty sank her triple. Demise Said Hollier also made an Athleta trey but Starlites were still in front.
In the second period, Athleta reduced their deficit with Starlites coming up with a 10-2 run as Patricia Arguello netted a brace of triples. Athleta’s reply was adequate as Said Hollier made two more triples in an 8-2 run till the interval. Starlites were then leading on a 33-24 score.
After the break, Borg made more hoops for Athleta but when Starlites put in a long 13-0 run they went way out in front.
Sharon Vella made an Athleta three point play but Starlites were enjoying a 51 35 advantage at that time.
In the last quarter, Julia Schembri netted an Athleta trey with Galea reciprocating for Starlites at the other end.
The play became balanced but Starlites were still happy with their solid advantage which they kept right till the end for a comfortable victory.
Athleta: S. Pisani, L. Duncan, A. Simmons 11, D. Said Hollier 14, A. Borg 12, J. Schembri 5, S. Vella 5, E. Pace, C. Mifsud
Starlites: K. Pirotta, K. Galea 18, J. Doughty 3, S. Farrugia 8, H. Acreman 8, D. Revol, J. Micallef, P. Arguello 16, M. Cutajar 6, S. Davis 4, A. Lupo 2
Referees: B. Vassallo, M. Rajczi, K. Dworniczak