Panthers' Defence Stifles Tigers in 70-58 Victory

South Adelaide secured a 70-58 win over Southern Tigers on Sunday at Morphett Vale Basketball Stadium. The Panthers dominated from start to finish, building a lead as large as 17 points. Their defensive pressure was the difference, forcing 16 turnovers and collecting 13 steals while holding the Tigers to just 31 percent shooting from the field. Ashleigh Spencer led the way with 19 points and four steals, while Hannah Gardiner and Hatti Cox each added 16 points. Cox also dished out five assists, and Isabella Stratford controlled the glass with nine rebounds to go with her nine points and four assists. Despite the loss, Southern's McKenzie Johnston delivered a monster double-double with 26 points and 14 rebounds, including seven offensive boards. The Tigers stayed competitive on the glass, winning the rebounding battle 49-43 with 21 offensive rebounds leading to 16 second-chance points. Annelise Bartsch contributed 13 points and seven rebounds, but the team's poor shooting (31 percent) and 16 turnovers proved too much to overcome. **SOUTH ADELAIDE 70 (Ashleigh Spencer 19, Hannah Gardiner 16, Hatti Cox 16).** **SOUTHERN TIGERS 58 (McKenzie Johnston 26, Annelise Bartsch 13, Abby Beeche 7).** #NBL1South #AussieHoops