WEDNESDAY night in the Women’s National Basketball League (WNBL) saw the Townsville Fire put an end to the Sydney Flames‘ three game winning streak by defeating the latter by 25 points at Townsville Entertainment Centre.

It was third against fourth when the Fire hosted the Flames, with both teams in strong form heading into the holiday period. Sydney had knocked off its last three opponents, but Townsville at home is always a particularly daunting task.

Ultimately, the Fire showed their class and their championship aspirations with a dominant display, looking far too good for the visitors and continued their charge up the standings. On the other hand, the Flames will be looking to bounce back after their hot form came to an end.

Townsville Fire (98) def. Sydney Flames (73)

The first quarter proved to be the difference, with the Fire getting the upper hand in the opening minutes of the game. After the two sides traded baskets early in the piece, Townsville went on a 12-0 run that broke the contest open. It was raining three-pointers at times, and the Fire led 33-13 at the first change and were in complete control of the match.

The second quarter saw more of the same from the Fire, who knocked down eight of their first 12 shots from behind the arc, which made proceedings extremely difficult for the Flames. Townsville also looked to push the tempo, and recorded 16 fast break points to help push the margin to 35 points, which was unassailable despite a half still to play.

It was certainly an improved effort from the Flames coming out of half time, lifting the effort and stemming the flow of dominance produced by Townsville in the first half. Sydney scored more points in the third quarter than the first and second periods combined, and looked a much better outfit, but still trailed by 30 despite the lift in effort.

The Flames continued to work hard in the fourth quarter, despite a win being out of reach, although it was evident Townsville had taken the foot off the accelerator after half time. Sydney fought hard to try and reduce the deficit, but time put an end to that quest, with the Fire moving to five wins and four losses on the season.

For the Fire, Saffron Shiels led the way on the scoring front with 18 points on 7/13 shooting off the bench in a solid display, while she had plenty of help from her starters, all of whom poured in 13 or more points in a tremendously balanced display. Lauren Cox produced a double-double with 15 points and 10 rebounds, while Courtney Woods nearly did the same with 15 points, nine rebounds and six assists.

Sydney was led by the efforts of star duo Celeste Taylor (15 points, two rebounds, two assists) and Shaneice Swain (15 points, two rebounds, three assists), while young gun Bonnie Deas impressed with 13 points of her own off the bench.

The WNBL action continues tonight when the Bendigo Spirit host the Perth Lynx in a top-two clash.