Coffs Harbour Beachside Radiology Suns won both their games last weekend in their pursuit of a final 4 position in the State League Basketball Competition. Saturday’s game against Maitland Mustangs was a bruising encounter with Suns having a tough time getting their shots in. Half time saw the Suns just in front 22-21.  A more confident start in the 3^rd quarter with tighter defence and some great shooting from Laura Bamford-Cleland, who was the top scorer for CHBA with 16 points, allowed the Suns to increase their lead and control the game. Three point shooting accuracy was the difference in opportunities taken and the lead stretched to 63-48 at full time. Coach Connie Woods was pleased with her team’s second half “their aggressive defence and teamwork in attack was crucial in getting the win....  with Jordon Woods & Jessi Reeves shooting well from the floor and players sinking their free-throws, we managed to pull away in the end from a very tough team”.

Sunday’s game in Port Macquarie saw the Coffs Harbour Beachside Radiology Suns get their second win of the weekend. The Suns hit the ground running playing a fast attacking game. The team made some great baskets taking the lead to 17-9 at the end of the first quarter. Georgia Martyn & Jessi Reeves were both shooting well, confidently supported by the team in defence. The Suns strong defence from the guards - Jordon Woods, Kate Harland and Jasmine Host - saw Port Macquarie turn the ball over a number of times in the back court. Suns held the lead 37-23 at half time.

Once again, Suns had a strong third quarter with controlled shooting from Laura Bamford- Cleland and Emily Malouf. The Dolphins were feeling the lack of their tall forwards-both injured- and the speed of the game was fatiguing. Piper Bourke and Rachel McGinniskin’s height was a big advantage for the suns as they managed to rebound and score under the basket. All 9 of the Suns’ players had points on the board as they powered home with a 21 - 9 fourth quarter. The final score 82-50.

The Suns team will be feeling self-assured by these wins and this weekend’s games in Maitland will be approached confidently. Coach Connie Woods “ We know that we are capable of beating Maitland again and with the other two opponents (Wagga and Goulburn) behind us on the table, we need to stick to the game plan and get the three wins this weekend”.

The top four teams advance on to finals. Despite recent losses to Newcastle the Suns are still looking to have a strong run into the end of the season and on to finals. The Coffs Suns will need to secure their spot by winning all three games this weekend in Maitland.