By Nick Creely
It’s been slow going after Christmas for the Rangers, with scratchy plays and uncharacteristic turnovers plaguing them for the last month.
After a stirring overtime victory over Melbourne last round, the Rangers went to Adelaide on Saturday evening to tackle the Lightning, a side that had their measure at home only a couple of weeks ago.
But this time, the Rangers sought revenge, and were on from the outset.
It was clear their defensive game was at its best, placing the home-team under immense pressure with the ball.
In a rapid start to the game, the Rangers led 24-12, with their fluent ball-movement and accurate shooting returning.
And they were merciless there on in, dismantling them like top teams do, winning 85-58 and never looking back after the electric start.
Rangers coach Larissa Anderson believes her team’s strong form before Christmas has returned, and was pleased with the execution and teamwork shown against the Lightning.
“I think without a doubt having that extra week off before Christmas did not do us any favours, and we just lost that rhythm, so it’s taking a little bit of time to get going,” she said.
“Obviously that game against Adelaide wasn’t great, and we weren’t particularly good against the Boomers last week, only really showing what we can do in overtime – we are aware of it and there was a real shift this week.
“We owed them (Adelaide) after last time, and that’s been talked about, and we needed to send each other a message and show where we’re at – to their credit they worked hard all week and stuck to their game-plans for all four quarters – we rotated a lot as well and everyone played decent minutes.”
Steph Cumming was truly at her best and, combined with Sara Blicavs, ran the Lightning ragged with their almost flawless shooting.
A raft of other Rangers were also impressive – Lauren Scherf continued her breakout season with 11 points, veteran Jacinta Kennedy was at her best with seven rebounds, and Aimee Clydesdale continues to peak at the right time of the year.
The win sees the Rangers remain in top spot on the WNBL ladder, and face a massive Australia Day eve clash against the Melbourne Boomers in the city, something Anderson believes is the perfect tonic to continue on their momentum.
“I’m pleased we are playing Wednesday – it feels like we really turned a corner this weekend in Adelaide, and the fact we get to play another quality game in finals like atmosphere, which could be a sell-out,” she said.
“We’re in a great position and really want to make finals – so this is a must win for us so we would love if all Rangers fans came out and supported us – it’s only 15 minutes from Dandenong so all the girls would love their support.”
