Kyneton’s women’s side made a winning debut in the Country Basketball League north west competition.
The Tigers are this year fielding both men’s and women’s sides in a bid to try and keep district players playing for the local club at senior level.
The women’s side opened its ledger with a winning game on Sunday against Castlemaine Lady Cannons.
The Cannons got off to the better start and were able to put some points on the board.
However, the Tigers changed their defensive set-up and started to hit the scoreboard.
The Tigers took control of the game and opened up a 10-point lead, before the game blew out late for a 76-49 Tigers win.
Jess Mangan top-scored with 17 points, while Michelle Fletcher chipped in with 14 points. Both players have been leaders throughout the pre-season and provided a presence in the paint on Sunday. Molly Greetham was also busy with 10 points.
Brooke Mangan shot well from the outside hitting 11. Rochelle Mangan, Rebecca Dekazos and Adele Rogers all provided an outside presence. Chelsie Alcaraz’s defence was also a highlight.
It was a tough weekend for the Tigers men’s side which lost both its matches.
On Saturday night, the Tigers faced Mildura Heat in front of a big crowd at Kyneton. It was an even first half with the Heat leading by one point at half-time.
The Heat blew the game open, with a 44-28 second half to win 79-62.
Matt Quinn top-scored for the Tigers with 14 points and Jordan Mangan scored 12. Former AFL star Nathan Thompson scored 11 points, returning to a sport he played as a junior.
It was a lot closer on Sunday against Castlemaine Cannons, with the Tigers losing 52-47.
Missing Mangan, who is expected to be one of the Tigers stars this season, the Tigers found other scoring options. Dylan Tunn top-scored with 11 points, while Ethan Clark and Michael Ryan scored 10 points each.
Both sides face their first away match next weekend, taking on Maryborough Blazers on Saturday night.
