It was third versus fourth going into this Midlands Division 3A clash, with UoB sitting in third with three wins from their five games and Coventry sitting just behind in fourth with three wins from their three wins. Though despite going into the match on equal points, the game was far from evenly matched, with Coventry outclassing Brum in almost every department.
Coventry started the better side, and this trend was to be continued throughout the four quarters. At the end of the first-period the away side led 19-6, with their defensive organisation and slick attack already playing a major part in their play. Though two of Birmingham’s better performers, their captain Katie Fleming, and Leonie Weiss, did both manage to get UoB on the boards with a nice lay-up each.
Video of a free throw from @UoBWBball 2s’ number 7 from today’s game. @Guild_Sports @UBSport #swish pic.twitter.com/oLRxbGofbk
— BurnFM Sport (@BurnFM_Sport) January 20, 2016
Coventry’s dominance continued in the second quarter, with their Number 6 in particular, a thorn in the Brum side, as she accumulated points from composed shooting and skilful lay-ups of her own. In contrast Birmingham’s, Chrysanthi Hadjiyianmi, despite looking to drive forward positively at every chance, her efforts did not come to fruition as she was only able to score on one occasion. At half time Coventry led 40-11, a deficit perhaps slightly harsh on the home side- but nevertheless Coventry had earned their lead.
Usual service resumed in the third quarter, as Birmingham’s lack of communication when going forward and defensive naivety, leading to several missed chances for them, as well as allowing Coventry to score a number of easy baskets. And by the end of the third quarter it Brum trailed 16-60, and it looked impossible for them to come back into the game.
The final period of the game brought more joy for UoB as they closed the deficit slightly, the game finishing at 76-27 to Coventry. Priya Kholsa, Birmingham’s shining light in this final quarter as she drove forward threateningly constantly for the last ten minutes, along with keeping the crowd going. But her efforts were not enough as Brum had left themselves too much to do, and were ultimately not enough was Birmingham were outclassed by Coventry on the day.
Coventry now leap frog Birmingham into third, Birmingham slipping to fourth- though they will look for a more positive performance and result next week when they play a so far winless, Nottingham Trent.
Ladies Basket ball seconds vs Coventry by Burnfm_Sport on Mixcloud
Matt Bullin
