Spirit strives to silence Bulleen's big guns

By Tanya Paolucci
Updated November 7 2012 - 6:09am, first published October 14 2011 - 10:56am
ATTACK: Bendigo Spirit’s Kristi Harrower eyes the basket in last season's win against Bulleen.
ATTACK: Bendigo Spirit’s Kristi Harrower eyes the basket in last season's win against Bulleen.

BENDIGO Bank Spirit coach Bernie Harrower says his team needs to shut down Bulleen’s top guns to win tonight’s Women’s National Basketball League clash.Harrower, who was frustrated at the Spirit’s two near misses on the road last weekend against Townsville and Logan, said getting on top of WNBA rookie Liz Cambage and talented pont guard Samantha Richards will be keys to his team’s success.“We need to be able to take care of Liz Cambage and Sammy Richards,” he said.“Liz is such a big girl and an outstanding athlete.“It is going to take more than one player to keep her to a low level.”Harrower disputed claims made by Bulleen coach Tom Maher earlier this week that Richards could claim Kristi Harrower’s position as number one point guard for the Australia Opals.“For years there have been players coming through as ‘the next Kristi Harrower’,” he said.“It is always quite a difficult question, but Kristi’s longevity is what has kept her at the top.“It’s also what makes Kristi one of the all-time greats.“For another player to reach that mantle, they need to be in the game at that level as long as Kristi has.”However, Spirit’s coach did not dismiss Richards’ ability, and looks forward to the contest between the two players.“I would say Sammy is one of the closest coming through at the moment,” he said.“The battle between the two players is going to be worth the entry to the game.”The coach said the Spirit had to capitalise on opportunities to make amends for the team’s two losses on the road last week.“We need to shoot the ball better.“We had opportunities to win the games, with open shots, but just couldn’t get it done.Harrower praised the performance of forward Gabrielle Richards, who he said was his team’s most consistent performer.“Gabe Richards was back to her best form,” he said.“She went into the game with a slight calf strain, but performed so well.“I really think she will be one of the shining lights this season.”

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