Tara Murray
The Altona Gators kept their season alive with a big road win against the Western Port Steelers in the first week of finals in the Big V women’s division 1 competition.
Having essentially played elimination finals for a number of weeks to lock in fourth spot, the Gators were ready for the challenge when it arrived on Saturday night.
Making the trip down to Somerville, the Gators were tested all night by the Steelers.
The Gators were able to break open the game in the second quarter, scoring 22-12 to lead by eight points at half time.
They kept the margin heading into the final quarter before finishing strongly and winning the final quarter, to win 79-60.
Gators coach Randy Shanklin said it was a fantastic result for the playing group.
“The girls played well,” he said. “We knew it was going to be one of our toughest games of the season.
“They are a really physical team and a more mature team than we are. They understand what finals are about.
“Our youth league girls weren’t successful a couple of weeks ago but it was good to see them step up in a finals match like this..
“They pummelled us last time, it was nice to get a good win.”
Shanklin said having to juggle fitting players across both their women’s and youth league sides all season, it was nice to have everyone available.
He said they started off slowly before working into the game in the second quarter.
“From the second quarter we were able to lead from there,” he said. “It was great to have the depth as we didn’t always have a full team
“It’s a credit to the girls and the way they played together. There were lots of people who stepped up and contributed when they needed to.”
Aseka Ratnayake top scored with 17 points off the bench as five players scored double figures.
The Gators will face Warrandyte Venom in the preliminary final with the Venom to host it.
The Venom lost to the Chelsea Gulls 74-72 in the other semi final, with the Gulls winning through to the grand final.
Shanklin said it would be another challenge. He said having beaten both the other teams left in the confidence they took plenty of confidence into the rest of the season.
“We are still in it, which we are happy about,” he said. “We’re really looking forward to next week.
“Warrandyte weren’t at full strength when we beat them and we weren’t at full strength. They’re a physical team and are a smash and bang team.
“They have the best import in the league.
“We’ll stay in the same mode we were in this week.”
