EBL Division 2 Women's Club Reports

Having finally recorded a long-needed victory the previous week, Southend Swifts looked to repeat the process when they entertained top of the table Cardiff Clippers in their final home game of the season.

Swifts pressing defence produced early rewards as they jumped out to a 12-4 lead with all five players already on the scoresheet. Clippers replied with four unanswered points but excellent work around the basket from Jane Barclay, who scored her teams next five, helped Southend to a 26-12 advantage. A Louise Robinson three-pointer took the margin to 16 before Cardiff made six of the final eight points to reduce the deficit to 32-19 at the end of the first quarter.

A change of defensive formation gave the Welsh side an early boost as they prevented Swifts from scoring for four minutes but they were unable to press home the advantage, scoring just six points themselves. The teams shared the next six points, before a 7-4 run culminating in a Jo Andrews three-pointer gave Southend a 42-33 lead going into the final minute before Cardiff scored the final four points of the half to trail just 42-36.

When the visitors scored the first seven points of the third quarter it looked like the league leaders would gain their third victory of the season over the Essex side. But Fran Hitt, Abi Dempsey and Yetty Arayomi took over matters for Swifts. Dempsey scored four straight to put her side up three and although Cardiff drew level, a 9-2 run including two steals from Hitt gave Southend a 55-48 lead with Arayomi dominating at the defensive end with three blocked shots and four rebounds in the sequence. With the home side for once keeping their composure, the score stood at 64-55 going into the final stanza.

A 5-2 run for Cardiff made it a six point game before a crucial two minute spell. Jo Andrews, who has missed much of the season through work commitments, scored successive three-point shots and with a Lauren Kidd lay-up suddenly the margin was 14. The visitors brought it back to 10 but a Dempsey three-pointer was the killer blow and with Barclay hitting four straight, Swifts held on to record perhaps their best victory in a difficult season.

An excellent points spread saw Dempsey with 26, Andrews 16, Hitt 14 and Kidd and Dempsey on 13 apiece. A little too late to make the play-offs but a real indication of the team's capabilities.

w/e 26/02/06

SOUTHEND SWIFTS 73 SOLENT STARS 56

After a disappointing run of defeats, Southend Swifts were looking for victory when they entertained Solent Stars; a team that had already defeated them twice this season. Swifts looked to have a stronger line-up in place with Yetty Arayomi making her first appearance of the season, giving the Essex team four players at 6' or taller.

Solent started well, scoring the first four points, but baskets from Lauren Kidd, Jane Barclay and Abi Dempsey took them ahead and the teams traded scores to 10 all. A 6-1 run gave Swifts their first meaningful lead but the visitors hit back with four straight to again make it a one point game with one minute remaining before good foul shooting from Fran Hitt and Emma Hart gave the hosts a 20-15 first quarter lead.

But a change of defensive formation entirely changed the look of the match. With Tamsin McCarthy playing outstandingly on Solent's main threat Christy Rourke, the Hampshire side failed to score for 6 and a half minutes and although Swifts were not always able to convert their scoring opportunities the lead stretched to 28-15. With Kelly Matthews and Dempsey converting three-pointers the half time margin was 38-21; by far Swifts best quarter of basketball for some weeks.

When Kidd and Dempsey both hit three-pointers early in the third period, the lead had extended to 44-25 and Southend should have been able to relax. But, perhaps understandably, anxieties moved in and 10 unanswered points for Solent reduced the margin to 9. But a three-pointer from Hart and three points for Rebecca Rambin settled the nerves and with one period remaining, the score was 50-39 to Swifts.

Swifts upped the temp. with Rebecca Brough seemingly pressurising all of the Solent players, as the margin continued to extend and with three minutes remaining stood at 66-48. With the match effectively concluded, Southend took the opportunity of giving Francesca Whitby her first senior outing and the 13 year old delighted the crowd and her team mates by immediately getting onto the scoresheet. Another three-pointer from Hart and two foul shots from Hitt ended matters with Swifts gaining a much needed victory by 73 points to 56. Dempsey 23, Hart 10 and Kidd 9 leading the scorers.

w/e 19/02/06

UNIVERSITY OF WALES IN CARDIFF (UWIC) 95 SOUTHEND SWIFTS 59

After the disappointment of a heavy defeat the previous evening, the Southend Swifts senior squad had an early opportunity to quickly repair matters when they met Plymouth Racers, a team they had beaten comfortably two weeks earlier. The West Country side had also suffered a weekend defeat at Colchester.

A Jo Andrews three-pointer helped Swifts to the first six points and an Emma Hart trey and two foul shots from Jane Barclay made it 13-6 after four minutes. But the hosts scoring dried up completely and they managed just two more points in the quarter to find themselves trailing 19-15 at the end of the first quarter.

A change to a pressing defence reaped rewards for the Essex side and with Abi Dempsey scoring three three-pointers in the second quarter, Southend re-took the lead at 30-29 before conceding a 7-2 stretch over the final two minutes to be 36-32 behind at half time.

But whatever was said during the interval had an immediate effect. After conceding the first three points, Swifts scored the next 12 to lead 44-39; Lauren Kidd contributing seven. Racers pulled themselves level but good foul shooting from Kidd and Rebecca Brough gave the home side a three point advantage before the customary lack of concentration allowed Plymouth to regain the lead and take a 56-50 advantage going into the final stanza.

By conceding the first four points the visitors margin went to 10, before there was another complete turnaround as Southend made a stunning 18-6 run to lead 68-66 with two minutes remaining; Dempsey and Kelly Matthews both contributing threes in the run. But Racers called upon all of their experience and they scored 10 of the final 12 points to end up winners by 76 points to 70. Abi Dempsey, continuing her outstanding form, contributed 23, with Lauren Kidd on 11 and Rebecca Brough and Jane Barclay 10.

Next weekend sees just the seniors and under 18's in action. On Saturday the seniors again venture over the Severn Bridge to face the University in Wales. On Sunday the under 18's visit top of the table Sevenoaks as they strive to confirm their play-off position.

After the excitement of the under 16's victory, the Southend Swifts senior game was always likely to be an anti-climax; the home side again missing a number of players due to illness and unavailabilities.

Neither side made a good start with numerous scoring opportunities missed as Swifts took a 9-8 lead. Bears hit back with an 11-2 run to end up with a 19-13 first quarter advantage.

The second period was again largely uninspiring with Swifts getting back to within two points at 27-25 before the visitors moved ahead to 35-27 at the half time interval.

The third quarter saw the West Midlanders utilise their greater experience as they converted a number of fast break opportunities ending with a 12-2 run in the last four minutes to lead 65-47 with the final stanza to play.

The final period would prove to be possibly Swifts' worst of the season as they conceded 33 points as they seemed to run out of energy to record a very disappointing 98-60 defeat against a side that has improved dramatically over the season helped by the inclusion of two European players. Abi Dempsey with 27 and Lauren Kidd 13 the only Essex players making any sizeable contribution.

A plethora of illness, injury and unavailabilities meant that Southend Swifts team contained just one player over the age of 18 when they met top of the table side Reading Rockets in what was the fourth meeting between the teams this season; Swifts holding a 2-1 advantage thus far.

The home side were in no mood to allow their younger opponents any leeway and took an early 7-2 lead but 16 year old Lauren Kidd was in outstanding form for Southend and two three-pointers helped her to 13 first quarter points as the Essex side trailed just 22-15 at the end of the opening stanza.

Remarkably Kidd then hit five of Swifts next seven points as the score showed an improbable 25-22 to Reading half way through the second period. But the home side were galvanised into action and a 16-4 run over the next five minutes gave them a 41-27 lead at the half time interval.

Rockets took full advantage of their physical advantage and 10 unanswered points midway through the period took them 55-32 ahead, which they increased to 65-36 at the end of the third quarter.

But Southend's youngsters continued their battle, giving an excellent account of themselves, before losing 79-46 against a team that is certain to make the end of season play-offs. The highlight for Swifts being a career senior best for Lauren Kidd with 20 points.

Solent Ladies expected a tough game on the road with Black Country Bears fresh from their previous weeks victory over top of the table Colchester United. Missing Australian centre Anna Crosswhite Solent coach Paul Over drafted in first team squad member Sarah Cooper to provide some presence and height in the zone.

Cooper didn’t disappoint and scored four of Solent’s first six unanswered points. An intensive press initially appeared to stun the opposition but the home team mounted an effective press break and strong driving to the basket by the Bears Hungarian Eszter Dalnoki-Nagy meant that Solent were unable to completely pull away. However, Cooper kept putting points on the board, supported by Holly Over, captain Christie Rourke and Carrie Jones (who entered the game for Emily Brookfield after she picked up her second early foul) to give the Solent women a 20-14 lead after the first quarter.

Holly Over was rested early in the second quarter after picking up her third foul which saw Solent’s own Hungarian, Eszter Ball return to the court for a strong spell of 3 points that maintained Solent’s lead. Rourke controlled the play well at point and Laura Seenivasagam was unlucky not to score with fast breaks down the wing. The Bears maintained the pressure with good perimeter shooting which ensured Solent didn’t extend their lead with the half time score ending 34-28 in Solent’s favour.

A half time defensive rethink saw a switch to 1/3/1 zone which immediately brought dividends – Bears Hungarian was to score just 2 more points in the game having contributed 11 of their first half total. As Black Country tired Solent took advantage with Cathy Bonter pulling down several important rebounds and Jade Richmond finding space on the baseline to get points of her own. By the end of the quarter Solent had extended their lead by a further 3 points to 50-41.

The final quarter maintained the zone defence but as the Bears tired further Solent women reverted to their man to man defence to cement a well deserved 15 point victory that moves Solent up to 5^th place in the National League Div 2 (South) and 6 points away from a play-off slot with 7 games to play.

Solent scorers (rebounds in brackets): Sarah Cooper 26 (7); Christie Rourke 12 (3); Carrie Jones 11 (-); Jade Richmond 6 (2); Eszter Ball 5 (1); Holly Over 4 (7); Cathy Bonter 0 (6); Emily Brookfield 0 (-); & Laura Seenivasagam 0 (-).

This weekend Solent Women II continue their league action with an home fixture against league leaders Colchester United 4pm tip off at Hamble Community College, Hamble (entry is free).

After some disappointing results in the new year, the Southend Swifts senior team looked to get back onto winning ways when they welcomed old adversaries Plymouth Racers to Greensward College; the team just one place ahead of them in the divisional table.

Southend opened well, with a Kelly Matthews three-pointer triggering an 8-2 lead. Swifts were showing much more energy in their play and three-pointers from Louise Robinson and Emma Hart extended the lead to 16-8. The home side continued to exert pressure and with two further three-pointers from Hart, the margin had moved out to 29-18 at the end of the opening quarter,

Racers came out the stronger in the second period as they reduced the margin to 34-27 but another Matthews three-pointer and a further one from Rebecca Brough restored the hosts momentum and at half time the lead stood at 44-32.

Both sides struggled at the start of the third stanza, with just 9 points scored in the first six minutes. But Southend would regain their composure the better and with Abi Dempsey and Jane Barclay sharing nine points, the Swifts advantage stood at 55-38 at the end of the third period.

The teams traded baskets at the start of the final quarter before excellent foul shooting from Swifts produced an 8-0 run that would put the result beyond doubt at 70-47. With Plymouth forced to foul to try and prolong the match, Southend scored 13 out of 16 penalty shots to record a much needed 76-54 victory with Dempsey on 19, Robinson 14 and Hart 12.

Colchester United Getech Tigers have qualified for the England Basketball National Trophy semi-final in their first season at national league level! The team have had an amazing season so far having made the step up from Essex League Competition in September. In the last two years the team have won the Essex Play-offs and League titles back to back together with the Essex Cup and were voted team of the year at the Sport Colchester (Colchester & District Sports Council) annual sporting awards.

After early season defeats at Cardiff Clippers and Reading Rockets the team have bounced back to top the National League Division 2 (South) league table and are on course to book a National Play Off spot in March. They have turned around victories at Cardiff and Reading as well as pulling wins at each of the other teams in the group since September.

Their latest league results have been a superb 28 point win over local derby rivals Southend and a disappointing 6 point loss to Black Country Bears – showing the fact that all the teams in the division are capable of taking games from each other. At any time! The teams play each other three times in the league phase and after the second round of games Tigers sit at the top of the table!

The semi- final draw for the National Trophy has the Tigers pitted against the northern powerhouse academy ‘Team Northumbria’ from Newcastle and the game will prove to be the toughest challenge yet for the National League newcomers.

Tigers were at Plymouth, at the other end of the country, the previous week for a double header weekend of matches – Saturday seeing a 16 point victory in the Trophy quarter final followed by a repeat performance and 15 point win on the Sunday in the league. It was an amazing team performance over the two days lead by top scorer Kirsty Clark (24 points) on the Sunday and a magnificent defensive effort from the whole squad as Julie Pinch from Plymouth went from top scoring on the Saturday to being out of the top three by the Sunday.

The icing on the cake is that the Semi- Final has been drawn at home and will be played in front of a home crowd at Essex University at 4pm on Sunday 5^th February. The teams will be playing for a place in the final at the John Amaechi Centre in Manchester at the end of February.

“What has been achieved by the girls in their first season at this level is quite phenomenal. We have always been so proud of the Men’s team that has climbed up the national league tables since moving out of the junior divisions and has produced players that have gone onto College in the States.

"What we have now is a Women’s team that emulates that success and is on course for national recognition of their own. The success is due to the hard work and commitment of the players, a fantastic set of support staff and the backing of Getech our sponsors.

So after the excitement of the under 16 game, it was left to the senior team to see if they could get back to winning ways as they welcomed league leaders Colchester Tigers.

A lacklustre start from the home side saw Tigers score the first six points before Swifts finally get on the scoresheet with four points from Jane Barclay. But that would be their only points in the opening quarter as Southend trailed 14-4 after 10 minutes.

They would fare little better in the second period as they missed shots they would normally score with ease. From a deficit of 24-13, Colchester ran in nine straight on their way to a comfortable 35-15 half time lead.

With the match all but over, Southend put 15 year old Jacquelyn Jobey into the action and the Fitzwimarc School pupil showed her elder colleagues the way with nine of her sides 12 points in the quarter as the home side at least showed some fighting spirit despite trailing 50-27 with one quarter remaining.

Three pointers from Zoe Walkling and Rebecca Brough started to give the scoreline a semblance of respectability but the margin never became close enough to put Tigers under pressure as they ended up deserved winners by 71 points to 43 with no Swifts players in double figures.

Uwic Steelers rattled the Tigers cage at Essex University on Saturday seeking revenge for when Tigers beat them on their home turf!

Getech Tigers opened the game energetic and hopeful, despite this UWIC who not only matched Colchester for speed and athleticism but also in determination scored the first 11 points of the game. After many baskets rimming in then bouncing out Shemming scored the first basket for Tigers in the fourth minute. A long six minutes followed with Tigers looking for those extra points. Clark came off the bench and some outside shots dropped. Despite this at the end of the quarter Tigers trailed 5-25.

As the second stanza commenced Colchester appeared to have dusted off the cobwebs that hindered them at the start of the game. Excellent team work and early baskets by Read and Shemming lifted Tigers spirits. Still determined Tigers went on a run of 8 consecutive points to narrow Stealers lead to 10 only to be Knocked back down again by a UWIC 3 pointer. Persistent defence from Colchester paid of as gradually they chipped away at Stealers lead intercepting passes and breaking through their full court defence. As the interval loomed Colchester had out scored UWIC 20-12 and only trailed by 12.

The second half opened with Stealers basket only for Getech Tigers to answer in the form of baskets from Clark and Shemming along with rebounds from Khaira. Tension grew as Tigers only trailed by 3. Strong rebounding from Cadman and constant hustle from Mclean lead to more Tigers scoring opportunities. After a great team effort Colchester had once again outscored Uwic 13-5 and trailed by 4 going into the fourth and final quarter.

As the final quarter opened Colchester met their match in UWIC who closed down their fast break game with a trap. An exchange of baskets soon followed. Great anticipation from Clark interrupted Stealers momentum. With 5 munites left to play and both teams still in the race Colchester faced UWIC with their press and trap. Unfortunatley to stop the clock Read was forced to foul and exited the game with 5 personal fouls. Now with the entire team in foul trouble, penalty shots sooned followed for Stealers. As the clocked wound down Clark found the basket again but the defecit was too great and Colchester were defeated.

Coach Mark Lloyd commented ‘ Bitterly disappointing after we faught so hard to get the game back in our grasp. Unfortunately with a slow start we left ourselves too much to do. We must now get our heads back on track and in the swing of things to travel down to Plymouth next weekend to play two games, one league game and one in the quarter final of the National Trophy..

With nine regular players unavailable, Southend Swifts made the trip to Wales with no fewer than six under 16 players in their squad with 14 year olds Rachel Armstrong and Rebecca Brough as the point guards. Swifts were looking to reverse a six point home defeat against Clippers earlier in the season.

Five points from Louise Robinson gave Southend an early 5-4 lead and a Lauren Kidd basket and a three-pointer from Kelly Matthews increased the advantage to 10-5. A Brough lay-up and a Kidd three-pointer made it 15-8 before an 8-2 run, culminating with another Matthews three-pointer, gave Swifts an improbable 23-10 lead. Cardiff replied with seven straight but the shooting barrage continued from Southend and a further Matthews long range effort was part of a 9 point unanswered run that gave the Essex side an incredible 32 points in the quarter to lead by 15.

With Robinson and Matthews hitting threes at the start of the second period, the margin became 38-19 before Cardiff began to turn the tide with eight unanswered points. Matthews scored the next five to make it 43-27 but excellent shooting from the home side gave them a 19-7 run before Matthews completed a remarkable half of basketball with her 7th three-point shot as part of a 25 point personal haul as her team led 53-46.

But the second half would have an entirely different complexion as Cardiff's aggressive defence allowed them to keep Swifts scoreless for six minutes whilst scoring 18 points to lead by 11. As a completely one-sided game seemed possible, up stepped the diminutive Miss Brough to show her more experienced colleagues the way. The 14 year old, just selected for the England 1992 born training squad, scored 10 of her sides 12 points in the quarter to keep Swifts in the match at 75-65.

Southend reduced the margin down to 9 but could get no closer; at one point trailing by 22. But the team refused to concede and with Fran Hitt scoring seven points in the final three minutes the losing margin of 97-82 belied an outstanding performance from such a young side. Kelly Matthews 29 and Rebecca Brough 16, both with their best ever performance at senior level, leading the way.

SOLENT STARS 78 SOUTHEND SWIFTS 57
The Southend Swifts senior team travelled to Solent Stars looking to build on their recent improvement which has seen them record three successive victories after a run of six defeats. The team was hit by the late withdrawals of Kelly Matthews and Vikki Willmore but with Solent having just seven players, Swifts had to be hopeful of victory.

A sensational start saw Abi Dempsey score Southend's first nine points as the visitors raced into a 9-2 lead. Solent battled back into contention but with Fran Hitt doing an excellent defensive job on the home side's Australian Anna Crosswhite, it was the Essex side that led 19-12 at the end of the first quarter.

Despite missing some foul shooting opportunities, the lead stretched to 23-16 before Solent's change to a zone defensive entirely altered the complexion of the match. Southend began to make poor shot selections, allowing the hosts to take easy rebounds and initiate their fast break. A 9-0 run gave the South cost team their first lead although baskets by Dempsey and Lauren Kidd finally got Swifts scoring going and at half time the score stood at 32-31 for Solent.

The Essex side looked to have recovered their shooting form as Dempsey and Amy Andrews made three-point shots that helped them draw level at 41 apiece but a poor last four minutes of the third quarter saw the home side make a 10-1 run that enabled them to open a commanding 51-42 lead with one stanza remaining.

Swifts stayed in contention at 59-50 but with too many poor shots taken there was no way back at 70-57 going into the final minute. Solent scored the final eight points gave them a deserved victory by the slightly flattering margin of 78-57. The only comfort for Swifts being the outstanding form of 17 year old Abi Dempsey who lead all scorers with a career senior high of 28 points.

An exciting game was witnessed by all at Essex University on Saturday when Colchester United Getech Tigers played host to Reading Rockets.

Shemmings opened the game with a score for the home side, and from the onset both teams went on a run exchanging basket for basket. Tough defence from Getech Tigers gave them a 13-8 first quarter lead. Rockets battled back opening the second stanza with eight consecutive points only to be disrupted with a basket from Kayleigh Read. Vikki James entered the game and added to the Score sheet with two baskets fed from Read and taking a powerful offensive charge. Despite this Reading overpowered the quarter closing with a three pointer and the home side trailed by four going into the interval.

Morale remained high in the third quarter and the lead soon changed when baskets from Read and Shemmings opened play. Reading soon answered back only for Cadman to reply with a three. Relentless rebounding from Richardson and Clark helped Tigers outscore Reading by 13 points and the quarter closed with the home side ahead by nine. The fourth and final quarter opened with neither team scoring until the third minute, intense quick footed defence from Colchester resulted in Richardson starting the scoring to be followed by Shemmings and Mclean. Reading struggled to find a reply and attack the red hot tigers defence and overcome their impulsive rebounding. Colchester opened up the Reading defence and in the final two minutes it was only Mclean for the home side who found her way onto the score sheet. Full time result was Colchester 61 Reading 47. Shemmings finished the game with 26 points, Richardson with 9, Mclean with 8 and Read with 6.

Coach Mark Lloyd commented “An excellent team win against a strong Reading outfit. We battled for everything and we won the battle of the boards with an excellent performance and defensive effort”

Colchester is now looking forward to a well deserved rest over the festive season and play again on 7 January at home to UWIC.

So the final game of a busy weekend saw the Southend Swifts senior side take on second in the table UWIC looking to build on victories in the past two weeks. UWIC presented familiar opposition as no less than four of their team are former Swifts players.

Southend's early 5-2 lead was soon clawed back as the teams were tied at 6 before the hosts made a decisive 15-1 break with Jane Barclay and Vikki Willmore contributing six each. Swifts pressing defence was unsettling the visitors and good foul shooting from Amy Andrews led Southend to a 25-15 first quarter lead.

Another good opening, culminating with a Zoe Walkling three-pointer, took the Essex side out to 32-17 before UWIC's change of defensive formation started to bring them back. Led by former Swifts Sarah Wagstaff and Kasey Jennings, the Welsh team made a 16-6 run that brought the match back to 38-33, which they further reduced to 40-36 with 1 minute of the second period remaining. But in that short space of time, Swifts scored 8 points with Lauren Kidd hitting a three-pointer with just one second on the clock to open a 48-36 half time advantage.

A Kelly Matthews three-pointer at the start of the third stanza again made it a 15 point game as Swifts showed a determination sometimes missing this season. With Andrews in irrepressible form at point guard, Willmore and Matthews were able to find the basket as the home side put in their best third quarter performance of the season to extend their lead to 66-42.

But Southend needed to ensure they capitalised on this advantage and with Barclay and Fran Hitt dominating the rebounds, defence was rapidly turned into offence as the speed and accuracy of passing brought prolonged applause from the sizeable crowd. The final margin of 87-54 was greater than Swifts could have hoped for but was just reward for the display. Matthews with 18 points had her best performance of the season followed by Andrews on 17, Willmore 15 and Barclay 13.

Next weekend sees the under 18 women at home to Reading, the under 16 to Brentwood and the under 18 men to Barnet. All matches at Greensward College, the first match at 1 pm. On Sunday, the senior women travel to Solent.

The starting five of Ezsther, Emily, Holly, Christie and Anna came out very strongly and had some good chances right from the tip.

They raced ahead but as we well know UWIC are a strong team and came back towards the end of that quarter to only give us a 5 point lead at the end of it.

By changing the team about with Jodie coming on as a guard and Cathy on to give Holly a rest the team carried on their strong ways through the second quarter to lead by eight points at half time.

Jade came on to give Ezsther a breather and certainly flew up and down the court with some great moves and passes.

The third and fourth quarters were much the same winning both by narrow margins and giving us a 58 point to 43 win in the end.

We certainly had height on our side with Anna Ezsther and Kerrie when she came on which proved to be a good advantage for rebounds. Cathy and Jade are also good rebounders to have on a team which meant we were able to lead in that department 64 rebounds to 47.

The overall performance was very strong and confidence certainly has grown within the team. Lets hope to keep it up for our next game in the cup against Colchester.

Team: Laura Seenivasagam, Jade Richmond, Jodie Jerram, Ezsther Ball, Emily Brookfield, Holly Over, Christie Rourke, Kerrie Taylor, Anna Crosswhite and Cathy Bonter.

After a disappointing run of defeats, the Southend Swifts senior team travelled to the West Midlands to take on the Black Country Bears, a team with the same playing record as them so far this season. Injuries and non-availabilities had again hit the side and with Lauren Kidd failing a fitness test before play commenced; it looked like being another uphill battle for the Essex squad.

Bears came out strongly; opening an 8-5 lead after five minutes before Swifts got their running game going, scoring 10 of the next 12 points as they eased to a 17-11 first quarter lead; Abi Dempsey and Vikki Wilmore contributing three-pointers in the run. But Bears hit back; going on a 9-2 stretch that enabled them to regain the lead and with Dempsey picking up her third personal foul, things began to look bleak.

But for the first time in some weeks, the team kept their composure. They scored 11 unanswered points, including a three-pointer from Charlotte Micallef, and although Emma Hart also suffered an ankle injury, another Wilmore three-pointer helped the visitors to a 33-26 half time lead.

The third quarter has been Southend’s undoing in recent weeks but with Dempsey converting two fast breaks and Fran Hitt and Jane Barclay dominating on the boards at both ends of the court, the lead extended to 41-28. However the hosts staged an excellent comeback, going on 15-2 run, that tied the game at 43 before a single foul shot gave Swifts the narrowest of leads going into the final period.

Bears converted two foul shots to regain the advantage but Swifts change of defensive formation had immediate success as they scored 13 unanswered points to take a commanding 57-46 lead; Hitt and Wilmore combining for 9. The home side narrowed the gap to 59-53 before Wilmore converted two foul shots to close out matters and give Southend a much needed victory by 61 points to 53. Wilmore 20, Dempsey 15 and Hitt 14 leading the scorers.

Next weekend sees all of the Swifts womens teams in action. On Saturday the seniors visit Reading Rockets in the National Trophy whilst the cadets entertain London Towers at Greensward College in the National Cup. On Sunday the juniors visit Ipswich, again in the National Cup, with the under 14’s welcoming Croydon Fliers.

The Southend Swifts senior side put in their most disappointing performance of the season when they went down 90-57 to Reading Rockets at Greensward College on Sunday.

Swifts had won the away fixture by 24 earlier in the season but missing players and a complete lack of confidence has hit the Essex side badly and with Reading's new American player able to control the match tempo, the match result was never really in doubt.

Time and again Swifts allowed their opponents to take offensive rebounds after missing shots giving them further opportunities to score, which they gratefully took. From 21-10 down at the end of the first quarter, five straight points from Kelly Matthews gave the home side some hope but 8 of the next 10 for Rockets restored matters for them as they moved out to 39-28 at half time.

Excellent shooting from junior captain Abi Dempsey kept the scoreline reasonable at 50-38 before Reading went on a 15-0 run that put the game beyond doubt; taking them to a 69-40 lead with one period remaining.

Swifts flattered to deceive with a 13-4 stretch but the re-introduction of the visitors starting five settled matters as they ran out easy winners by 90 points to 57 with only Dempsey making any kind of contribution with 18 points.

Next weekend there is just one game with the senior side making the trip to the Midlands to take on the Black Country Bears. The under 14 side however have 7 team members competing for the East of England in the annual Lilleshall tournament.

SOLENT STARS II (11, 17, 23) 40 EZSTHER BALL 14, EMILY BROOKFIELD 11, JODI JERRAM

This weeks game against Colchester was one we wanted to win as we only lost by 1 point last time and the improvement by our players has been amazing.

Unfortunatley we were missing some important players which we thought would not affect the game but maybe it did. Anna Crosswhite and Christie Rourke were unavailable so our starting five were changed. Jodi Ezsther Emily Holly and Cathy started and seemed to be under pressure from the start.

They worked their socks off, though, but the baskets did just not go their way. Colchester were already 10 points up before Jodi managed to get on the scoresheet with a great 3 pointer.

We took 8 players with us as sadly also Jade was unable to get to the bus on time which again changed the dynamics of the team.

The confidence of the team did not seem to be there and resulted in lots of foul trouble in the first 2 quarters. In fact we were in team foul trouble in a blink which is certainly not normal for us.

Coach Paul tried to change the team around with good subs and different defence calls but to no avail. For the first half we were just playing catch-up.

The 3^rd quarter was only lost by 1 point and the last was won by 8 points which proves there is more to come from the team.

Holly and Emily both had to come off eventually with their fouls but they had done a stirling job whilst on the court.

Cathy did a great job of defence and rebounds and when Kerrie and Laura came in they were strong. Chloe was quieter in the game than normal but that will change.

We have Colchester again in a couple of weeks time in the next round of the cup.

That will be a great game and one that as they get that confidence back will surely mean Solent will come out on top.

Team: Laura Seenivasagam, Jodi Jerram, Ezsther Ball, Emily Brookfield, Holly Over, Kerrie Taylor, Chloe Mcewan, Cathy Bonter

In the Essex League Colchester United Getech Tigers beat Brentwood Fire with only six players on Friday night. Tough defence from Tigers kept Brentwood from scoring until the ninth minute when a shot luckily dropped. The game continued at a steady pace up to half time when Tigers lead 42-13. Continuing their enthusiasm into the second half and scoring spread amongst all players Tigers won 76-22.

In the National League Division two meet Colchester were also victorious over Solent stars 2. Beating them by only 1 point when on Solent’s’ home turf Tigers were desperate to give the crowd at Essex University the same display. The absence of Coach Mark Lloyd saw Andy MacKnight step into his position. Initially disrupting Solent’s offence by playing a tough man to man defence Colchester took an early lead. In the second quarter by moving the ball around well and penetrating the weak points of Star’s defence along with a trade mark three point shot from Karen Cadman ensured Getech Tigers went into the break ahead.

After the half time interruption Solent came out in full force putting points on the score sheet. Few shots dropped for Colchester despite their best efforts nethertheless tough rebounding from Sarita Khaira and Laura Shemmings along with steals from Catherine Mclean gave Colchester more scoring opportunities. Slowly but surely the baskets came.

The final stanza opened up with Solent in a full court press desperate to claim the game that was in their grasp. Stars' true colours showed with physical defence and foul shots in Colchester’s’ favour. Good shooting from the entire team maintained Colchester’s’ lead.

Coach Andy MacKnight used this opportunity to play his whole squad and Beth Whybrow entered the game only to get fouled on a drive to the basket resulting in getting her name on the score sheet.

As the final seconds drew near a Solent player was fouled on a drive to the basket as the buzzer sounded. Despite her making the free throws Colchester had done it again winning 48 to 40 and maintaining their top position in the division for yet another week.

On Saturday the 26 November Colchester United Getech Tigers are on the road against Plymouth. Triumphant at home earlier in the season Colchester will want to disrupt Plymouth for hopefully another success.

A double win for Colchester United Getech Tigers this week in both local and national league competition. The Essex League saw Getech Tigers travelling to Southend Scorpions with only six players on Thursday. Southend scored the first six points of the game and nothing dropped for Colchester until the final minutes resulting in an eight all draw at the end of the quarter. A marginally better second quarter followed with all six players now being on the score sheet including a three pointer from Vikki James. Into the second half of the game more long range shots dropped for Colchester including a three pointer from Captain Karen Cadman and many shots from just within the line. Despite Scorpions best offensive efforts tough defence from Tigers kept the opposition to scoring only one point. The fourth quarter saw Captain Karen Cadman taking the pace of injured Amanda Key and running the fast break. Southend battled on however the deficit was too great and Colchester won 21-76.

At Essex University on Saturday Colchester United Getech Tigers Hosted Cardiff Clippers. Having lost to them away in the first game of the season Tigers were seeking revenge.

Colchester dominated the game as soon as the clock started scoring the first nine points of the game. Cardiff soon answered back and both teams went on a stretch of matching each other basket for basket including a long range three point shot from the visitors. Despite this Colchester finished the quarter eight points up.

The second stanza was much closer. Excellent long range shooting from Colchester’s Kay Read and Captain Karen Cadman kept Colchester ahead. Sarita Khaira made an entrance to the game dominating the boards only to get fouled by Cardiff’s physical defence as a result Khaira got herself on the score sheet and continued to battle it out. A late three point short from Cardiff meant Colchester went into the break only one point up.

After the break Cardiff opened in a press however this didn’t deter Colchester who scored four early points with Cardiff not responding until the third minute. Vikki James also entered the game and made her presence felt scoring a long range jump shot in the ninth minute. Getech Tigers persistent defence paid off as Cardiff only scored six points for the quarter compared to Colchester’s 15.

The fourth and final quarter opened with a basket from Catherine MacLean only to be answered by two consecutive baskets from Cardiff. However Clipper’s scoring didn’t continue and Colchester went on a scoring run. Beth Whybrow entered the game and immediately ran the fast break to assist Catherine MacLean to yet another easy bucket, this was followed by baskets from Laura Schemmings and a trade mark three from Karen Cadman. In the last seconds Clippers scored totalling six points in the quarter. When the buzzer sounded Colchester were victorious.

Top scorers were Laura Schemmings with 15 points, Kay Read with 14 points and Catherine MacLean with 10 points.

Coach Mark Lloyd commented “This game was a real battle of the boards and that’s what differentiated the two teams and put us ahead. The result was a real team effort with everyone giving their all. Compared to that first game of the season when we travelled all the way and lost I feel we have come so far but still this game is one of many yet to come so we must look ahead.” As a result of the win on Saturday Colchester are now top of the Women’s Division two South league. Let’s hope they can maintain it against a tough opposition that is Solent Stars two on Saturday the 19 November. Tip off is 4pm at Essex University.

With the spate of injuries and unavailabilities continuing, Southend Swifts took their youngest-ever squad for a senior match when they made the long trip to the West Country to take on Plymouth Racers. Swifts had six under 16 players in their nine strong squad as they took on the team that were league champions from 2001 to 2003.

Despite the six hour journey, Southend scored the first six points as Vikki Willmore and Emma Hart found their range and a three-pointer from Charlotte Micallef and four more from Hart took Swifts 13-6 ahead. Plymouth's change of defensive formation unsettled the visitors but further baskets from Willmore and Hart left Swifts 19-14 ahead after the first quarter.

The second period saw both sides struggle to score but Swifts Jane Barclay began to dominate, contributing six points, and with debutantes Sarah Bates and Rachel Armstrong scoring their first senior baskets, Southend led 31-22 at half time.

The first seven points of the third quarter, including a Hart three-pointer, gave Swifts a commanding 38-22 advantage but Plymouth's aggressive defence was ruled acceptable by the officials and this gave the home side the impetus to make a 20-1 run before a Willmore three-pointer tied the game at 42 with just one stanza remaining.

Racers scored the first five points but Amy Andrews replied with three of her own to bring it back to two. Plymouth scored the next four but a 6-2 stretch for Swifts made it 53-51 for the home side going into the last minute. Three out of four from the foul line took Racers to 56-51 and although Willmore made two from the line Swifts could get no closer as they suffered another tough loss 56-53. Willmore 17 and Hart with her senior best of 13 led the way when their young players showed a great level of maturity against much physically stronger opponents.

After three disappointing defeats, Southend Swifts were hoping to get back onto winning ways when they made the relatively short trip to Colchester United, who had made a solid start in their first season in the National League. Swifts received a double blow before the game, with Amy Andrews unavailable due to work commitments and Vikki Willmore out with illness.

Southend struggled to find the basket early on before junior captain Abi Dempsey scored her sides first five points and when Fran Hitt made an easy lay-up the visitors held an unlikely 7-2 advantage. Colchester, with a number of experienced players, were able to compose themselves, and they made a 10-2 run to take the lead. A three-pointer from Kelly Matthews tied the game up at 12 before the hosts scored the final three points to hold a 15-12 advantage after the opening stanza.

Swifts continued to struggle and trailed 26-16 with two minutes remaining of the first half but in scoring the final four points gave themselves some hope as they trailed just 26-20 at the midway point.

Another poor scoring stretch at the start of the third quarter took the game away from the visitors as they trailed 38-21 and although they scored the next five, they conceded four of the last six points to be 42-28 behind with one quarter remaining.

The very young Swifts side continued to battle and had it not been for some bizarre officiating decisions may well have got themselves back into the contest but the lack of so many experienced regular players was always going to be too much as they suffered another disappointing loss by 57 points to 41 with just Dempsey 17 and Hitt on 10. The journey to play top Division 1 team Sheffield Hatters in the quarter final of the National Cup on Sunday will be a very long one.

After two disappointing defeats, Southend Swifts looked to get their league campaign back onto winning ways when they welcomed old adversaries Cardiff Clippers to Greensward College.

From the opening tip Swifts never seemed to be firing on all cylinders as turnovers gave Clippers an early 4-0 lead. A three-pointer from Kelly Matthews and a pair of foul shots from Fran Hitt should have calmed matters and a burst of six unanswered points midway through the first quarter gave the hosts a 16-11 lead which they should have built on. Cardiff's change of defensive formation seemed to unsettle Southend but a three-pointer from Louise Robinson helped her side to a 20-15 first quarter lead.

A further three-pointer from Matthews took the margin to eight but the visitors replied with 10 straight to re-take the lead. Four foul shots from Jane Barclay restored the Swifts lead and some unusually good foul shooting took them 38-32 ahead before further lapses in concentration allowed Clippers to score the final eight points of the period to hold a 40-38 half time lead.

The nightmare continued at the start of the third quarter as Southend conceded a further eight points to trail by 10. Matthews again came to the rescue with another trey but her team could find no fluency. Even when they were able to create opportunities they were unable to score from even close range as they fell 60-48 behind with one stanza remaining.

When Cardiff scored the first basket the game seemed all over. But Vikki Willmore, who had been off colour by her own standards, started to exert her influence. She scored four of a 6-0 run that gave some hope. The visitors made the next five but suddenly the unlikeliest of victories became possible. A Willmore basket and a Matthews three-pointer made it 68-60 and a further four from Willmore, against just one foul shot for Cardiff, took the score to 69-64 with two minutes remaining. But the Welsh side regained their composure and extended their lead to 76-67 before Matthews fifth three-pointer of the game left the final score at 76-70.

Willmore with 13 points in the last quarter led all scorers with 25 followed by 16 from Matthews but Cardiff had five players in double figures and that was the difference as Swifts feel to the most disappointing of three successive losses.

Next weekend sees the under 16 side visit London Towers whilst the seniors have two very important matches. On Saturday they visit Colchester United looking to get their league season back onto track. On Sunday they have the biggest game in the clubs history when they go to perennial champions Sheffield Hatters in the quarter final of the National Cup.

After their first defeat of the season the previous week, Southend Swifts senior side looked to get back on winning ways when they entertained Solent Stars II. Swifts were again missing Natalie Stafford and Rebecca Rambin, whilst Solent had players with Division 1 experience as well as 6' 3" Australian Anna Crosswhite.

The early exchanges favoured Southend as they led 8-5 and they looked to be establishing a margin as two three-pointers from Louise Robinson helped them to a 19-14 first quarter lead. But Solent hit back with the first seven points of the second quarter before scores from Vikki Willmore and Fran Hitt took the home side back into the lead. Solent made the next four, which were replied in kind by Willmore, before Crosswhite hit her 13th point of the first half to tie the game up at 27.

But a disastrous start to the third stanza would have a crucial effect on the game as the visitors went on a 17-2 run, which included 12 further points from Crosswhite. At 44-29 the match may have seemed over but Swifts made the next eight points as Jane Barclay's defensive energy sparked her team. Solent restored the margin to 8 before a Willmore basket on the buzzer left it at 49-43 with one period remaining.

Solent scored the first basket but a huge three-pointer from Amy Andrews and another Hitt score made it 51-48. Solent scored again before an outstanding left-handed basket from Barclay again brought it back to three. But the Essex side could get no closer and good foul shooting from Solent enabled them to end 65-56 winners. For Swifts Hitt 17, Willmore 14 and Andrews 9 had led the scorers whilst for Solent Crosswhite on 27 had led the way.

The Colchester United Tigers were on the Road in the National League against Reading Rockets. This game saw the introduction of Laura Shemmings in her first national League appearance for Colchester this season; she made her presence truly felt grabbing rebounds and scoring 15 points.

Both tigers and Rockets were evenly matched despite Rockets being the overall taller team, at the end of the first quarter Tigers were down by one point. Into the second quarter Tigers battled on, however a few minor turnovers and Reading using their height to their advantage under the basket grabbing rebounds resulted in Colchester being nine points down at half time.

The break worked wonders for Colchester who bounced back in their usually slow third quarter; they used their speed and efficiency down the court to put early points on the score board. Reading couldn’t help but get in foul trouble in attempting to stop Colchester scoring. Catherine Mclean scored all her free throws resulting in Colchester outscoring Reading by three points and leading into the fourth and final quarter only three points down.

The game still in their grasp and tension rising, Colchester United Tigers played tough defence causing Reading to use all options to try and score. Kirsty Clark was out of the game for Colchester early into the quarter with a twisted ankle meaning an already undersized team lost an important inside player. Despite Reading being in foul trouble for the fourth time in the game their tough defence was hard to break.

With the clock running down and another vital player Laura Shemmings got fouled out Colchester were defeated. The end score was 65-58.

Coach Mark Lloyd commented "Both results show how the team is developing - before the start of the season we would have been happy to know that we could compete at National League level - we now know that we are perfectly capable of playing at the higher level and able to give all the squad court time in the Essex League and still dominate, we have an even record in the National League and are unbeaten in Essex"

The next national league game for Colchester United Tigers is on Saturday 22 October against the Black Country Bears at the University of Essex. Tip off is 2pm.

After the excitement of reaching the National Cup quarter final the previous week, Southend Swifts senior womens team were back in league action when they travelled to Cardiff to take on the only other unbeaten side in the division. Southend were again lacking Jo Andrews, Natalie Stafford and Rebecca Rambin but were also missing Vikki Willmore and Kelly Matthews through unavailability. They also met a side containing three former Swifts players in Sarah Wagstaff, Katie Nicholson and Kasey Jennings.

UWIC made a good start taking an early 9-3 lead as Swifts struggled to get the long journey out of their legs. Abi Dempsey made a three-point play and when Amy Andrews opened her account with a three-pointer, it was a one point game at 10-9 to the home side. Four points from Wagstaff increased their lead but good work from Jane Barclay and Fran Hitt around the basket brought Southend back into the game and they trailed just 20-17 at the end of the opening quarter.

A basket from 14 year old Rebecca Brough and a three-pointer from Louise Robinson gave the visitors their first advantage but this seemed to spur UWIC on and they made an 11-2 run that threatened to break the game open. But a Dempsey three-pointer and another Barclay score calmed matters and with Andrews scoring her sides last four points of the second period, it was 40-36 at half time.

The teams continued to exchange baskets to make it 46-42 midway through the third quarter before Swifts' pressure defence started to reap rewards as they scored eight straight with Andrews and Hitt prominent. UWIC hit back and with one or two dubious decisions going in their favour, they scored the last 11 points of the period to lead 57-50 with one stanza remaining.

UWIC looked to press home their advantage with a further 7-3 stretch but Southend showed their resilience with an 11-4 run that brought the scoreline back to 68-64 with two minutes remaining. But they could get no closer as they fell to a narrow 73-66 defeat in what was an excellent performance by a very young team. Abi Dempsey had her best-ever scoring performance at senior level with 18 points followed by Hitt with 16, Andrews 11 and Barclay (fast getting back to her best) with 9 points and numerous rebounds. For UWIC the top scorer was Wagstaff with 23, so Swifts can take some satisfaction with that.

SOUTHEND SWIFTS 84 BLACK COUNTRY BEARS 65
It was left to the senior women to reverse the earlier fortunes of the day when they met Black Country Bears in their first home league fixture of the season. Bears have moved from the North to the South division and have one win and one loss so far. Southend had a depleted side; missing Jo Andrews, Natalie Stafford and Abi Dempsey from their usual line-up.

Despite the beauty of the Swifts new kit, it was the visitors who took an early 8-6 lead before the home side's defensive pressure started to reap rewards. Guards Amy Andrews and Vikki Willmore operating well together and creating errors that were rapidly turned into baskets; Fran Hitt and Louise Robinson featuring prominently. A 12-2 run broke the game open and a further 11-5 stretch took it to 29-15 at the end of the first quarter.

An Andrews three-pointer followed by a lay-up from a steal showed the Essex sides intentions and with Jane Barclay, Kelly Matthews and Zoe Walkling getting on the scoresheet, suddenly the lead was over 20. With Willmore dictating the play, Southend were continually getting easy scoring opportunities, leaving them ahead at 50-31 at the half time break.

A somewhat lacklustre start of the third quarter could have given the Midland side an opportunity to come back but a 13-4 burst from Southend took the margin to 64-35. Bears scored the next four but a 10-2 stretch, capped by a Willmore three-pointer, left it at 73-41 with one stanza remaining and an eassy victory likely.

The visitors, however, had other ideas, and they put together an excellent five minutes of play that reduced the deficit to 74-57. But that was the closest they would get as Swifts finished comfortable winners by 84 points to 65. Willmore 21, Andrews 17, Hitt 13 and Robinson 12 leading the way.

Colchester United Tigers continued their winning streak on Saturday in front of a home crowd against Plymouth Racers at The University of Essex.

After an energetic first half Colchester’s score was double that of Plymouths, with Plymouth only scoring four points in the second quarter. After the break Plymouth came back fighting, trying to keep Kirsty Clark out of the game and prevent her from scoring, and therefore consequently out scoring Colchester in this quarter. Despite this, after a slow third quarter, Colchester maintained a comfortable lead into the fourth enabling Coach Mark Lloyd to include all 10 players in the game. Colchester won 37-51.

Kayleigh Read top scored finishing with 13 points including a three point shot, this was followed closely by Kirsty Clark and Catherine Mclean both on 12 points. The next game is at The University of Essex in the third round of the national cup on Sunday 9 October at 5 pm against London Acers, this promises to be a challenging game.

Following a recent defeat away to Cardiff Clippers Colchester United Tigers Ladies went on the road to Solent Stars on Saturday.

Having already beat North Norfolk in the national cup away two weeks ago the team were seeking another away win. The entire game was close with Colchester being down 1 point at half time. All the team put in a tremendous effort.

With three point shots coming from Captain Karen Cadman and solid defence Colchester won the third quarter by four points. Towards the end of the game the intensity peaked when Solent were given two foul shots, they missed one which left Colchester one point up with only a few second left, calm ball handling from Kayleigh Reid in the last few seconds ensured that Colchester had yet a another win under their belt , the final score being 55-54.

Top scorers for the game were Catherine Mclean with 14 points and Kirsty Clark with 13 points along with Karen Cadman and Kayleigh Reid both scoring 9 points, Sarita Khaira also came ofF the bench and scored 6 points for Colchester who are sponsored by Getech Limited.

This is their first season playing at a higher level in national league, following a successful year in the local league winning Essex league, Essex Cup and the Play off finals .

Their next game is on Saturday 1 October at the University of Essex tipping at 2pm against Plymouth followed by the Colchester United men’s team playing home against West Herts. This tips at 4pm

Southend Swifts senior team started their league campaign with a visit to Reading Rockets. The Berkshire side have brought in a number of new players from last seasons line-up and were looking to record their first win after losing their opening fixture the previous week.

Swifts pressure defence brought early success as they scored the first six points but Rockets replied with the next five and in the following exchanges, the home side edged ahead by 8-7. However Southend regained their composure and with Natalie Stafford scoring nine of the next eleven points, the Essex side led 18-10. Reading again replied with five straight before Swifts scored the final points to lead 20-15 at the end of the first quarter.

Rockets came out the more determined scoring the opening four points before Southend took the game over. A 19-5 run, started and ended with Amy Andrews three-pointers, blew the game open and took the lead into double digits for the first time. The hosts battled back, with an 8-2 stretch of their own, before an Andrews three-point play helped her side to a 46-33 half time lead.

Another good start from Rockets saw them reduce the deficit to 50-41 before Southend gave some idea of their defensive power. In a stunning six minute period they outscored their opponents 24-6 as Stafford and Fran Hitt continually picked off misdirected passes brought about by defensive pressure. Despite being on four fouls, Kelly Matthews and Vikki Willmore showing great defensive technique as the match was put beyond doubt.

Despite the scoreline, Reading stuck at the task and actually shaded the fourth quarter. But a 94-70 away victory for Swifts gives encouragement for the rest of the season. Stafford 31, Andrews a senior career-high 23 and Hitt 15 leading the way.