Rockingham Flames hand Goldfields Giants first win of the NBL1 women’s season

History was made in Kalgoorlie on Saturday, the Goldfields Giants scoring their first win of the NBL1 West women’s season, and handing Rockingham their second consecutive loss.

The Giants were still chasing their first victory heading into the home clash at Niels Hanson Stadium, while the Flames were hoping to redeem themselves after last week’s two-point loss to Lakeside Lightning.

Goldfields started well with 25 points to 20 in the opening quarter, but Rockingham hit back with 26 points to 22 in the second period.

The Flames outscored the home team again 20 points to 18 in the third quarter to see them lead 66-65.

But the Giants dominated the fourth period with 22 points to 12 to create their slice of history with the 87-78 victory.

The Giants were dominant in all aspects of the game, pulling down 51 rebounds to 38 including 14 offensive boards to six, while they took 27 free-throws to just nine from the Flames.

Former Mandurah Magic star Emma Klasztorny led the way for the Giants, with 22 points, 13 rebounds, two assists and two steals.

Rockingham’s Taylor Ortlepp, who is doing an admirable job juggling her WAFLW and NBL1 West commitments this season, put up an impressive 24 points for the Flames.

Christina Boag added 12 points, seven rebounds and four assists, Patty Brossmann 12 points and 14 rebounds, and Chloe Napolitano 10 points and three boards.

Round 5 will see the Flames take on the South West Slammers at Eaton Recreation Centre on May 6.