Rockingham Flames women through to semi-finals after three-point win over Lakeside Lightning

Rockingham Flames have kept their season alive after the women’s side recorded a nail-biting three-point win over Lakeside Lightning at Lakeside Recreation Centre on Saturday.

Finishing the regular season in seventh just below Lightning on the NBL1 West ladder, the Flames had plenty to prove as the underdog heading into the elimination final.

Despite the pressure on Lightning they were able to keep their cool in the first quarter, putting up 25 points to Rockingham’s 24.

The Flames stepped up in the second quarter and started to challenge the opposition with 15 points to Lightning’s 14, evening the scoreboard at 39-all by halftime.

Their momentum continued in the third quarter but Lightning were hot on their trail with 21 points to 19, giving the Flames a two-point lead heading into the final term.

A nail-biting fourth quarter saw Lightning attempt to launch a comeback, but Rockingham managed to remain just ahead, putting up 16 points to 15 to finish the game 76-73.

Patty Brossmann was instrumental in the Flames’ win, putting up 27 points and 12 rebounds, while Mehryn Kraker wasn’t far behind with 25 points and nine assists.

Ruth Hamblin did all she could for Lakeside with 27 points, 11 rebounds, three assists and two blocks, while Ash Isenbarger put up 16 points and 15 rebounds in her 200th appearance for the Lightning.

Rockingham Flames will face Mandurah Magic in a semifinal showdown at Mandurah Aquatic and Recreation Centre on August 25.