However, a commanding performance by the Sydney Uni Flames with 29 points in the final quarter gave the visitors a five-point victory, scores 80-75.

Both teams came out firing from the start, with the Flames ahead by two-points at quarter time.

The Spirit put the pressure on in the second quarter, limiting the Flames to just nine points in comparison to their 20, taking a nine-point lead at the half-time break.

Come three-quarter time the Spirit had control of the scoreboard with a seven-point lead.

However, once the final quarter was underway, the Flames were determined to leave Bendigo victorious.

In a nail-biting finish which saw the Spirit only two points down with 20 seconds left on the clock, a few last-minute baskets by the Flames sealed victory.

Regardless of it not being the ideal result for the Spirit, coach Tracy York said there were positives.

"Compared to last week it was better, but we just couldn't finish the job off tonight," York said.

"We did well for so long and made some really good shots."

York conceded giving up 29 points to the Flames in the final quarter was "too many".

Spirit's Tessa Lavey said the team knew they were capable of more.

"It's disappointing because we know we can play really well, but at times we're not doing it," Lavey said.

"Which is where a lot of our frustration is coming from.

"We're a prideful group and we can't go into the rest of the season with our heads down...our aim is to turn it around."

Lavey was named as the Spirit's match MVP, finishing with a double-double on 16 points, 11 assists, five rebounds, two turnovers and two steals.

The Spirit's next game will be a home game with a twist, the team will host the UC Capitals in Ballarat next Friday.

RELATED: Spirit players jump behind 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence

Have you signed up to the Bendigo Advertiser's daily newsletter and breaking news emails? You can register below and make sure you are up to date with everything that's happening in central Victoria.