The UWA Maali women held strong in the last quarter to prevail over an energised RMIT Redbacks side whilst the men’s team fall short and end winning streak on home soil.
A tough day in the office, UWA Maali women started the game in impressive form with lockdown defence and swift attacking plays. A commanding lead disappeared and the Redbacks came charging in the second half of the game. Constant rotations ensured the UWA Maali team remained fresh and in the contest as fatigue crept in the last quarter. However, each player stood up in the last four minutes of the quarter. A key difference was the determination from the young Maali side, with strong drives to the paint. UWA Maali were able to secure clutch lay ups to keep the scoreboard ticking. The home team nullified an efficient scoring Redbacks team, with strong defensive pressure, resulting in a 61-57 win over RMIT University.
On paper, the UWA Maali men were destined to win the RMIT Redbacks on home soil. However, RMIT University sharpshooter Caleb Bruggeman caused serious headaches for the Maali men’s team. The defensive structures were unable to hinder the strong attack end of RMIT Redbacks with Bruggeman exposing gaps in the defence end.
The UWA Maali chipped away at the large deficit to comeback in the last quarter. An exhilarating last five minutes, key defensive plays from the team especially Oliver Haste and Declan Barrett allowed the UWA Maali to stay in the contest. Kyiah O’Donohue clinched a three-pointer with seconds remaining to close the margin and draw the game. In the extra five minutes of play, Redbacks surged on to get the win and halt the winning streak of the UWA Maali.
Next week, UWA Maali will play Curtin Carnaby in the derby round as the last game of the regular rounds of the UBL season. All is on the line as both teams fight for a top 8 spot to make finals in season 3 of UBL.
Support the UWA Maali and fly with the flock in the derby game. Visit here to register for free tickets to the home game that includes transport, supporter merchandise, and a pre-game snack pack.
For more information on the UBL competition, statistics, and game information, visit UniSport and watch replays at UniSport TV.