Mandurah Magic have continued their unbeaten start to the 2013 season with a last second victory over the Lakeside Lightning on Saturday night at the Lakeside Recreation Centre.

Rachel Halleen’s three point play with less than a second remaining in regulation secured a 67-65 victory, and sees the Magic improve to a 2-0 record on the season and already matching the number of wins the team had in the entire 2012 season.

The Lightning entered the game as one of the form teams of the league as well as one of the best three point shooting teams. The Magic also saw the debut of import Brittany Ward, who took to the court as the team’s point guard.

Both teams shot well from the court in the first quarter, with Magic veteran Casey Mihovilovich providing the early scoring. Lightning star Krystal Stoneking was also dangerous early for the Lightning.

The Magic took a one point lead into quarter time and were able to extend their lead to six points at the main break. Mandurah continued to shoot the ball efficiently, finishing the half shooting 48% from the field, while the Lightning struggled at 34%.

The Lightning rallied in the third quarter outscoring the Magic by five to cut the deficit to one point. Stoneking and Jessica Beran were looking to carry the game on their backs for the Lightning as they combined for 31 of the team’s 46 points at the final break.

Magic youngster Ashlee Sidebottom also lifted her intensity to have 11 points to three quarter time, while Ward showed her shooting skills to have 12 points.

The final quarter was a back and forth contest with both teams exchanging the lead numerous times. Sidebottom continued her outstanding start to the season by scoring 10 of her career high 21 points in the final quarter.

Mihovilovich blocked a crucial Lakeside three point attempt with under two minutes remaining that would have tied the game. The lead continued to change in the final minute and with Lakeside leading by a point, Rachel Halleen stole the ball from the Lightning guards and was able to score and draw the foul with less than a second remaining on the clock. Halleen was able to convert the free throw attempt to put the Magic up by two and ultimately secure the victory.

Sidebottom led the Magic in scoring with 21 points, while Ward had a debut to remember finishing with 16 points whilst not missing a shot the entire game. Mihovilovich finished with 14 points and eight rebounds.

Beran was the game high scorer finishing with 22 points and eight rebounds while Stoneking contributed 20 points. The Magic shot 48% from the field while the Lightning converted on 47% of their shots, however they struggled from the three point line, making only six of their 28 attempts.

The Magic travel this Thursday night to take on the reigning WSBL champions South West Slammers, while the Lightning also have a Thursday night game as they tackle their cross town rival Willetton Tigers. Both games start at 6.30pm.

Article by Nathan Winch
Photo by Mick Cronin