THE depth of talent in the Swallows was evident in their hard-fought win over the Tigers at Quandong Park on Saturday.
Going into the game, Irymple looked the better team on paper, but to Red Cliffs credit, they were up for the contest and even held the lead at various stages before they were run over at the end.
A 14-6 final quarter proved the difference for the visitors, who won 49-38.
Tigers captain Jazmin Parker had a huge impact, particularly in the third quarter where she was able to secure good positioning and score against the Irymple defenders.
She slowed down as the game went on but finished with 30 of her team’s 38 goals.
However, when it mattered most, their defence stood up, led by Vanessa Power, who had some important intercepts and was able to drive her team forward.
It felt like the centre court match-up was even throughout, but when it mattered most, the Swallows seemed to have greater stamina, particularly through the middle of the court.
Swallows coach Sherrie Geister said it wasn’t her side’s prettiest performance, but they were happy to come away with the four points.
“Shak Delcastagne ran the middle of the court extremely well, she was outstanding, getting intercepts at the right time when we needed to stop them from scoring, she led by example,” she said.
“I think we went in probably not expecting them to be quite as strong as what they were.”
The Swallows, a distinctly different squad from last season, are definitely yet to reach their full potential, thanks to a greater blend of youth and experience.
After plenty of opportunities earlier in the game, the attacking Swallows Evie Oldham and Shelby Trigg finished strongly, not settling for long shots, instead patiently moving the ball around until they found higher percentage looks.
“Shelby is obviously new to the club and is getting to know people and a new living environment, she’s doing a great job,” Geister said.
“Evie was also really good, she took things in her stride and obviously she’s used to playing against older women with her basketball background.”
With Indi Spratt a player the team will welcome back at some stage, the Swallows will certainly have no shortage of shooters.
Power was effective at goal attack in the first half before she was swung back to defence.
Her versatility is expected to be valuable moving forward.
“Mackenzie Ryan was another one that we swung forward and back, we have some versatility at both ends for sure,” Geister said.
Overall, it was a gallant performance from Red Cliffs, who played in front of a home crowd for the first time this season.
