Match Report: Chargers Pull Away Late to Defeat Bendigo in Round 5

The Hobart Chargers produced a strong all-round performance on Saturday evening, defeating the Bendigo Braves 92-67 at Hutchins School in their Round 5 NBL1 South Women’s clash.

After a competitive first half, the Chargers asserted control through the middle stages of the contest and powered away with a dominant final quarter to secure a convincing home victory.

Hobart set the tone early with sharp offensive execution and strong work inside. Sharna Thompson and Tyia Singleton established early rhythm, while Chloe Broomhall made an immediate impact on the glass. Bendigo responded through Ahlise Hurst and Olivia Pollerd, but Hobart’s ability to convert inside looks and control the boards saw the Chargers take a 26-20 lead at quarter time.

The second quarter tightened as Bendigo lifted their intensity and briefly disrupted Hobart’s flow. The Braves found success from the perimeter and closed the margin, but the Chargers continued to respond through composed half-court execution. Tishara Morehouse began to assert herself offensively, and Portia Chopping provided valuable contributions as Hobart carried a narrow 43-41 lead into the main break. 

Hobart emerged from halftime with renewed purpose and quickly began to stretch the game. Thompson found consistency from both inside the arc and the free-throw line, while Broomhall controlled the paint at both ends of the floor. Morehouse’s aggression off the dribble and Singleton’s interior finishing helped Hobart open up separation, as the Chargers won the third quarter 23-15 to take a 66-56 lead into three-quarter time. 

The final quarter proved decisive. Hobart lifted their defensive pressure and converted efficiently in transition, limiting Bendigo to just 11 points for the term. Thompson and Morehouse continued to lead the charge offensively, while Broomhall’s presence on the glass ensured repeat scoring opportunities. The Chargers poured on 26 points in the final stanza to close out the contest and secure the 92-67 victory. 

Sharna Thompson led Hobart with 23 points and five assists, providing control and scoring throughout the night. Tishara Morehouse added 17 points and seven assists, while Chloe Broomhall delivered a dominant double-double with 17 points and 13 rebounds. Tyia Singleton contributed 16 points, and Portia Chopping recorded 11 points and nine rebounds in a strong all-round performance. 

For Bendigo, Ahlise Hurst finished with a game-high 26 points, while Olivia Pollerd added 18 points and eight rebounds. Despite their efforts, the Braves were unable to match Hobart’s depth and consistency across four quarters. 

The win caps a positive Round 5 outing for the Chargers women, highlighted by strong defensive effort, balanced scoring, and control of the glass as they continue to build momentum in the NBL1 South season.