Eagles return with Wolves mauling

NEWCASTLE Eagles got their WBBL campaign back under way yesterday with a win over Oakland Wolves,

Newcastle were without the services of stars and leading points scorers Steph Gandy and Kara Bonenberger.

But luckily, their absences gave Georgia Ohrdorf and Kalina Axetievas the chance to shine at Sport Central, with the two forwards registering 19 and 22 points respectively.

The first quarter got off to a blistering start as Ohrdorf helped herself to nine points.

The second quarter was a different story, with Oakland punishing Newcastle with several three pointers.

But Eagles skipper Giuliani Simioni stepped up to deliver some moments of sheer brilliance as she guided her side back into the contest.

The guard, who managed to convert a free throw right on the stroke of half-time to tie the contest at 30 all, also finished the game with a double double.

And, while the second quarter was a shaky one for the Eagles, the third was the complete opposite.

Playcaller Chris Bunten’s side played some of their best basketball all season.

The Eagles went on a rampage through the Oakland defence r but only held a lead of four with the score at 49-45.

Moving the ball well, the Eagles managed to put a number of quick scores past a hap-hazard Oakland defence.

While Oakland managed to keep the game competitive thanks to efforts of a double double from Roya Rustamzada, they were ultimately no match for the Eagles – with the contest finishing 68-51.