THE fighting spirit of Bendigo’s team shone through in last night’s Women’s National Basketball League clash at Bulleen.
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For the third time in as many matches, Bendigo fought back brilliantly to continue its unbeaten run.
Four-time Olympian Kristi Harrower nailed a two-point shot at 16 seconds to go which put Bendigo back in front.
Although the Boomers had one last scoring shot, it did not fall as Spirit’s players, coaches and fans celebrated a 70-69 victory at Veneto Stadium.
It was Harrower’s leadership which played a big part in Bendigo’s success.
By match end the brilliant guard had racked up 14 points, six rebounds and four assists, while Kelly Wilson, 16 points; and Gabe Richards, 15 points and 11 rebounds were also superb.
Although it was not her best match from a shooting perspective, Harrower’s final attempt showed all the poise gained from years playing on the international scene for the Opals, as well as stints in the US, Europe and the WNBL.
“I just put the shot up there and hoped it would go in, or at worse win the rebound,” Harrower said shortly after the match.
The Spirit star was quick to praise her team-mates, and Bulleen’s defensive play.
“We have dug deep in all three games,” Harrower said.
“Tonight our offence was not great, but defensively it was a great effort to keep Bulleen to 69 points.”
Stars for the Boomers were Rachel Jarry, 19 points and nine rebounds; Alice Kunek, 16 points; and Elyse Penaluna, 15 points and nine rebounds.
Spirit travels to Dandenong tonight to take on the Rangers.
Tip-off is at 7pm.