Team Northumbria bounced back with a vital win on the road to the WBBL play-offs to cap a tough weekend double header.
TN started the weekend with a Saturday trip to Manchester and lost out 85-72 to the homecourtMystics.
However, back at Sport Central on Sunday the hosts ground out a nailbiting 67-63 win against the Sevenoaks Suns.
The game was close from tip to buzzer with the visitors just shading it during a competitive first half.
TN came out fighting after the break to bring the game to a thrilling fourth quarter close.
Coach Chris Bunten was on his feet for most of the game - visibly frustrated with the first half performance.
And TN’s playcaller was relieved his side managed to turn around a tight match when it mattered most.
“It was nice to get a win in what was such a close game because we haven’t been in those situations a lot and the fact we can fight and bring it out when it matters is huge,” he said.
“We made some good plays down the stretch but we dug ourselves a hole in the first half. Luckily the score didn’t reflect how poorly we were playing defensively.
“Credit to the girls - they stood up and we held them to about 21 points in the second half so that’s huge.
“If we can put that effort in more often then we’ll be really good come play offs. It’s a really positive step forward from where we’ve been.”
Over the weekend three players stood out for TN - each putting in solid performances.
“Nicolette Fong Lyew Quee, Kara Bonenberger and Alison Gorrell are my three marquee players and right now we need the more than ever,” added Bunten.
“They played 40 minutes when we had a tough loss away at Manchester and they played 40 minutes again 24 hours later. They’re fighters.”
TN travel to title contenders Nottinghma Wildcats on Saturday before welcoming Barkig Abbey Crusaders to Sport Central the following day (4pm tip).
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