McKay the key to big Bendigo win

On the scoreboard, and from the crowd, it looked like complete dominance for the Champions IGA Bendigo Braves Women against arch rivals Ballarat on Thursday night.

But for coach Mark Alabakov, there was always a large amount of caution just under the surface.

“It didn’t feel like domination at all,” Alabakov said of the 95-64 away win.

“We know they’re a great shooting outfit and we were always wary of what they can do from outside the arc.”

However, it was inside the arc that saw Bendigo take the game away from the Miners early. A 10-0 start led by the return of Meg McKay turned into a 46-31 half time lead.

“Having a person back with that much gravity on the floor was very welcome,” Alabakov said.

“Obviously Meg is a great inside target, but she also drags defenders to her.

“We talk about key-three-and-key-again and that’s what we were able to do when we needed it.”

And do it they did, scoring a massive 54 points in the paint.

“There were a few other stats I liked as well, such as 30 assists for the night, which showed we were sharing the ball around and always looking for opportunities,” Alabakov said.

“Our defence kept Ballarat to about two thirds of what they scored last week, which was a great effort.

“Sitting in a 2-3 zone all night gave us clarity and it paid off. And Cass McLean kept Abbey to less than half of her score last week, and only four in the second half, which was amazing.”

Alabakov was also impressed with his young brigade, including those who got good minutes on Thursday night.

“We want players off the bench to come in and defend like their lives depend on it, and make effort-based plays at the offensive end,” he said.

“Poppy Blanch improved throughout the night, which was great to see, and Caitlin Richardson again played how we know she can.”

All of Bendigo’s starting five hit double figures on Thursday night as the Braves ran out winners 95 to 64.

McKay top scored for Bendigo with a massive 31 points and 16 rebounds.

Madi Sexton finished with 20 points, and Kelly Wilson delivered yet again with 15 points, seven rebounds and 14 assists.

Photo - Craig Dilks Photography