Archive Mystics Reports
Mystics News for 2010 - 11
9 August 2011
Mystics News
Here are some key dates for Mystics Senior Women and Under 18s players and followers for September:
30 April 2011
U18 Manchester Mystics 58 - 73 Sevenoaks Suns
U18 Manchester Mystics 69 - 55 Doncaster
Play-off Semi Final
Play-off 3/4
Mystics u18s successful season culminated in an appearance at the Final Fours in Sheffield last Saturday. At this level, there are no easy games and our semi-final saw us paired with cup holders, Sevenoaks Suns. The omens were not good. They had already beaten us by 17 earlier in the year and we were plagued by injuries, with Leah McDerment (knees), Cath Stansfield (knee), Lucy Rogan (ankle), Ashley Tensel (knee) and Katie Rowlands (various) all far from being at 100%. Once these casualties had put on as much tape as Boots sell in a whole month, we were ready to give it our best shot against an older, more experienced side, a number of whom play regularly in the Senior Women's Division 1 league.
The England physio had advised me that Leah should only play for short stretches at the end of quarters so that her painful paetella tendinitis (which I thought was a Spanish seafood dish!) would not stiffen up too much. Consequently, I did not start with her and we went 4-8 down after 4 minutes. We had done well defensively as a team to stop England stars, Renee Busch and Cheridene Green from scoring inside but had given up two 3 pointers instead. I then introduced Leah and we immediately went 11-9 up with 3 points from her and 2 each from strong drives from Ashley Tensel and Melissa Golaub. I then rested Leah for the final 2 minutes of the quarter and we lost that segment 1-8!
A three pointer from the excellent Tracey Caton, who was more pumped up than an over-inflated tyre, brought it to 15-19 and 2 buckets from the focused Katie Rowlands kept us in touching distance at 23-29 fifteen minutes in. My desire to give all 12 Mystics first half court time then came back to haunt me. We buckled under the pressure and a 9 point burst turned us into Sherpas - it gave us a mountain to climb! - as we now trailed 28-43, having leaked 26 points in the second quarter.
This virtual capitulation just before the break hung over into the third period and we trailed by as many as 23 at 37-60, despite a bright start to the fourth thanks to a 2 from Cat Meakin and a 3 from Tracey, we were still 20 down with 7 minutes remaining. A 30 point drubbing looked on the cards as Sevenoaks seemed in no mood to show any mercy and displayed no intent to rest key players. From playing too timidly and almost in awe of our more illustrious opponents, the girls suddenly threw away their inhibitions and put together a 6 minute spell of fearless basketball. Leah, Tracey, Mollie Campbell, Ashley and someone else (yet another senior moment!) went on an incredible 14-2 run and threw the game on its head at 58-66 with 2 minutes to go. The scores stayed that way going into the last minute so I ran the bench and Sevenoaks to advantage of my generous nature(!) to add 7 unanswered points to win 58-73.
I was extremely proud of the way the girls stepped up in the final period, inspired by their captain, Tracey. Other positives include the way in which Hannah Alty got stuck into Cheridene, even though she is at least 6 inches smaller. Lucy Rogan and Cat did a terrific defensive job on the hugely talented Renee and Nat Feurtado and Mel gave us energy and belief when we needed a boost (or aTwix or a Crunchie!). Katie also did very well inside and Charlotte Hughes was as steady as a tight-rope walker! Sevenoaks hit no less than 9 three pointers and dserved their place in the final but they had been made to sweat, sorry, glow.(Horses sweat, men perspire and ladies glow!) Their coach acknowleged the hard-fought nature of their victory by stating his concern that his team had been forced to expend too much energy to come out on top and this might have consequences for the Final for them (which it subsequently did; they led by 15, ran out of steam and lost by 4 at the death.)
Having run the bench throughout the first game, hopefully, we would have no such problems in our match versus Doncaster which would decide who was officially the third best u18 team in the country. Doncaster are very difficult to beat away and Sheffield isn't very far from home for them. Charlotte Hughes must have been unaware of the geography of South Yorkshire because she blitzed them with 9 personals (points, not fouls!) in the opening 4 minutes with some zone-busting shootin.(Zone busters, who you gonna call?). Mollie and Mel cashed in as well and at 16-5 we looked in control.
It remained comfortable throughout the first half and we turned round 30-21 to the good with all 12 Mystics making use of the court time they had been afforded. We then bossed the third quarter to go 16 up. A spirited recovery at the start of the fourth by Doncaster actually got them to within 5 at 55-50 with 6 minutes remaining. Cath Stansfield then took over and amassed 10 points in the quarter as we ran away to take the bronze medal (rather than the slightly less attractive certificate for fourth place) 69-55 thanks to a genuine all-round team effort. Everyone scored and no-one scored more than 11. Just as pleasing is the fact that no less than 10 of the team are young enough to be eligible to play u18s next season.
13 April 2011
U18 Manchester Mystics 71 - 47 Southend Swifts
U16 Manchester Mystics 77 - 48 Northants
U14 Manchester Mystics 75 - 50 Ipswich Bobcats
Play-off Quarter Finals
12 April 2011
Manchester Mystics 73 - 58 Solent Suns
Play-off Final
6 April 2011
Manchester Mystics 67 - 59 Sevenoaks Suns
29 March 2011
Manchester Mystics 78 - 51 Bristol Academy Storm
22 March 2011
Manchester Mystics Under 18 55 - 64 Nottingham Under 18
Manchester Mystics Under 18 99 - 24 Stockport Under 18
17 March 2011
Manchester Mystics Under 18 65 - 54 Nottingham Under 18
Nottingham are an academy side, full of good players with just 1 loss away to Doncaster (where nobody wins .........!) and they showed their pedigree from the outset as the 2 teams went toe to toe at 7-6 after 4 minutes top-class junior basketball. Not even Mystic Meg could have predicted what the next 6 minutes had in store for the appreciative crowd. Against opponents of proven ability, Mystics (ours, not Meg!) produced a spell of sparkling play which tied Notts in knots! Every member of our starting 5 - Tracey Caton, Charlotte Hughes, Leah McDerment, Lucy Rogan and Cath Stansfield - scored at least twice during an irresistible 21-2 run performed at lightening speed but with maximum efficiency. It might have been even more emphatic but for an enforced change brought about by Charlotte picking up her third foul in less time than it takes to boil an egg! We also contrived to miss 7 of the 11 free throws our positive and direct play had created but nevertheless won the quarter 29-8.
I had replaced Charlotte with the talented Ashley Tensel, but we were now seriously out-heighted, so I had no qualms about using our bench which was full of quality in the form of Mel Golaub, Katie Rowlands, Cath Meakin and Hannah Alty. In hindsight, I probably made too many changes in the second period, particularly as Nottingham's response to the mauling they had just undergone was to go to a 2-3 zone in an attempt to slow things down. The tactic was moderately successful for them for the first 5 minutes of the second quarter in that they managed to prevent the lead from growing. The teams traded baskets to bring it to 36-18 with Leah and Mel sharing our 8 points. Even though we only had a 3 from Tracey during the entire next 5 minutes, I was not really concerned (not because I had dropped off) because our solid team defence had given up only a 2 and a free throw in reply.
39-21 represented a job well done at half-time and a repeat performance, even of the even second quarter, would afford us a comfortable victory in the high teens (which sounds like a Scottish mountain range!). However, we were soon to discover that sport can be as unpredictable as the English weather. Nottingham found ways to get the ball inside to the powerful P. Mugadza and she showed no mercy to rack up 10 effortless points. We had become static and hesitant and were far too content to pass or dribble around the perimeter without any inside threat, relying on shots from distance without any meaningful rebounding. It meant that we added a meagre 7 to our tally and, by the end of the third, our lead had shrunk to 9 at 46-37.
With Mystics' confidence and poise shaken, Nottingham closed the gap to a nervy 4 at 50-46 with 6 minutes to go. That was as near as they got. It isn't easy for a young squad of players to re-focus and dig deep when they have become flustered but this is a special group. I reverted to the 5 who had begun the game so well, even though this meant bringing off the excellent Mel. They produced at both ends of the court, shutting out the inside threat, hustling and scrapping for loose balls and moving the ball purposefully enough to get open looks. This resulted in a 15-8 final run, highlighted by two 3s and a 2 from Tracey, and an ultimately comfortable enough 11 point victory at 65-54 at the end of an exciting game which was well refereed. It won't be easy, but another win in the return fixture next Sunday morning at 11.00am and one in the evening at home to Stockport, now mean that the league title is ours for the taking!
Thanks to all for their support.
Jim. 17/3/11.
16 March 2011
Manchester Mystics 47 - 62 Durham
10 March 2011
Manchester Mystics Under 18s 99 - 22 Sefton Under 18s
Mystics U18s brief is simple - win your 4 remaining games to clinch the Northern Conference and secure the most favourable draw you can to the Final Fours. Without being disrespectful to last Sunday's visitors, Sefton, this, in theory, would be the easiest of the 4. For once, theory and practice complimented each other. (''You look nice today, theory.'' So do you, practice.'') Baskets from Catherine Stansfield, Charlotte Hughes, Tracey Caton and Katie Rowlands put us 14-0 up within 5 minutes. Ashley Tensel, Laura Threlfall and Hannah Alty subsequently added their names to the list as we dominated the first quarter 26-6.
The following 10 minutes of play proved equally one-sided, despite Sefton's admirable spirit. The pace of Mel Golaub, Jade Davidson and Lucy Rogan, allied to the shooting accuracy of Tracey and Hannah helped increase the lead to 40 at 51-11 by half-time, ensuring that all 10 Mystics had scored within 12 minutes of the start. To the delight of her team-mates, Lucy concluded the first half's proceedings with her first 3-pointer of the season with what was probably her first attempt from beyond the arc. Her dilemma now is does she go for it again or does she go through the rest of her career by abstaining and retiring with a 100% record?
Sefton tightened up their defence somewhat after the break but the girls still mixed things up to register 20 more points. In the paint, Katie was like a plate which had been left under the grill for ages - too hot to handle. Catherine continued to score freely with some powerful drives. Charlotte shot unerringly from medium range, as did Lucy. Tracey was at the centre of most of the good things which were happening and Mel effortlessly flew up and down court, smiling all the way!
Jade, in her first appearance for us at this level, had been very hard on herself and was disappointed with her performance thus far. She had had (I'm now stuttering when I write!) no need to have been and had (again!) an excellent fourth quarter. She, along with Tracey, Catherine and Charlotte hit double figures while Katie, Lucy, Mel and Hannah were all just 1 or 2 points shy. Our second debutante, Laura also played well at both ends of the court, as did Ashley during her limited minutes following her game for the Senior Women beforehand.
The final score of 99-22 sounds impressive enough but it does not portray the strength of depth that we possess at junior level. The victory was achieved without key members of the squad, Cath Meakin, Leah McDerment, Natalie Feurtado and Mollie Campbell. Indeed, it is just as well that we are blessed with more than our fair (and brunette and ginger!) share of talent because our next 2 games are against fellow title chasers, Nottingham. With Mollie (ankle), Jade (wrist) and Nat (cut eye) definitely out plus Tracey (back) and Ashley (finger) doubtful, as well as Leah and Lucy continuing to play in pain due to possible tendonitis/shin splints/malaria/growing pains/shrinking pains we have even more casualties than our strickened Senior Women who are currently as fit as Long John Silver would have been if he'd had arthritis in his one, good leg!
Thanks to all for their help and support.
Jim. 10/3/11
8 March 2011
Manchester Mystics 66 - 75 Durham Bobcats
8 March 2011
Manchester Mystics 105- 53 Sunderland Predators
Without our 3 tallest players, Pauline Thivillier, Mollie Campbell and Charlene Ward due to injury, I called up Catherine Stansfield, who has been outstanding for the U16s and 18s this season, to give us some rebounding clout. She responded magnificently. Sunderland have a team packed with quick guards but they lack height which suited us in the light of our absentees.
We tend only to deal in close first quarters and, so as not to buck the trend, we leaked early points to trail 11-12 after 5 minutes. Offensively, Nicki Blakeway and Leah McDerment immediately found ways to score but our defence was as sharp as an unsharpened knife. Jamie Curtis and Ashley Tensel then also cashed in basket-wise and I was pleased with our first quarter tally of 23 but grumpy(again!) regarding the 19 we had conceded.
Things didn't improve over the next 5 minutes at the defensive end. Nicki (inside) and Jamie and Leah (on the perimeter) were proving to be as deadly as arsenic to ease us to 33 points with 15 minutes gone but, by contrast, our defence was as potent as watered-down shandy, giving up 29. I 'politely requested' an increase in defensive focus and intensity. Not wishing to see an old man cry, the ladies upped their game to construct a blistering 19-7 run leading to half-time. Catherine, Tracey Caton and Emma Macready profited from Jamie's and Leah's almost telepathic passing skills to push us up to a commendable 52 first half points. A spirited Sunderland side had hit 36 which was still too many, meaning that further defensive adjustments were required.
The third period began with a carbon copy 19-7 spurt, dominated by Nicki, Catherine and Leah, orchestrated by Jamie and the ever-willing Lucy Rogan. Our team defence was finally functioning at the high level we have come to expect from this talented group so that, despite having several capable offensive players, Sunderland were only able to add 10 points over the last 15 minutes of the game, with every Mystic, including the frenetic Mel Golaub and the assured Sinead Ennis playing their part in the 105-53 victory.
Offensively, we had been most consistent, impressively registering between 23 and 29 points in all 4 quarters. Defensively, we had improved as the game progressed, giving up 19, then 17, then 10 and then just 7 per quarter. We controlled the boards throughout (72% to 28%), with Nicki achieving the milestone of a 'double double' by scoring 24 points and pulling 12 rebounds, a feat which Emma, Leah and Ashley all also very nearly accomplished. Jamie's 14 points were supplemented by 7 assists and Catherine managed 2 blocks as well as 15 points to show what a valuable asset she will be. None of the 10 Mystics on duty finished the game with an efficiency rating which was negative, indicating that, like Mother Teresa, they all did more good things than bad!
Thanks to all for their support and help. It was lovely to see Pauline turn up to watch, although I'm not sure whether she came to show team loyalty or merely for sympathy!
Jim. 7/3/11
1 March 2011
Manchester Mystics U18 77- 28 Warrington Jets U18
28 February 2011
Manchester Mystics 66 - 45 Sheffield Hallam Hatters
From the previous contest, as well as from the EB stats, I knew that L.Lindsay and E.Clayton were Sheffield's main scoring threats and so detailed our strongest defenders to match up with them. I could not have hoped for a better outcome. Nicki Blakeway and Pauline Thivillier did such a great job on Lindsay that she only scored 1 basket in the entire match. Jamie Curtis and Leah McDerment were equally effective on the excellent Ellis Clayton. Ellis did manage 9 points but 7 of them were from the free throw line and her solitary field goal came when someone else was marking her!
Our starting 5 of Nicki, Pauline, Jamie, Emma Macready and Charlotte Hughes clicked quite well on offense, give or take a few too many turnovers, but were, unusually, like on duty sailors (all at sea) defensively. We did not defend as a unit in the opening minutes. Normally, it's impossible to keep them quiet but today there was no communication and no anticipation. Nevertheless, thanks to 6 different scorers, we shaded the quarter 18-14.
The second period proved similarly tight. Sheffield's hard-working, aggressive defensive pressure continued to be rewarded by turnovers. By contrast, we remained too passive and were grateful to Emma, Pauline and Mollie Campbell's offensive contributions which us helped turn round at 35-29. Our determined opponents had put in so much effort to remain in touch and had not really used their bench. We had been far more liberal with our substitutions. Bearing this in mind, if we maintained an up-tempo approach and also became more pro-active on defence, I was confident that we would prevail.
The team upped its defensive intensity significantly in the third stanza. Sinead Ennis, Lucy Rogan and Tracey Caton coming off the bench all bought in to our philosophy and helped restrict Sheffield to 11 points in the quarter. Tracey also made an impression with a 3 and a 2 while Nicki and Emma continued to battle hard in the paint to give us breathing space at 51-40 going into the final period.
Our focus, energy, team work, team spirit and superb team defence then enabled us to dominate the remaining 10 minutes. Ashley Tensel and Nicki took over offensively and were well supplied by Jamie, Leah and Tracey. Mollie's all-round performance made up for the loss of the glass-fingered Pauline and, just as our captain, Nicki, had requested, we won the fourth by 10 to finish 66-45 to the good. Our defence had been so unforgiving that, try as they might, Sheffield could only score 5 points in the 10 minutes - 2 from an inbounds play plus 3 free throws.
A subsequent injury to Mollie Campbell now makes it highly likely that we will go into our last four league games of the regular season against Sunderland and Ilkeston next Saturday and then the two league title deciding games against the likewise undefeated Durham on 6 and 12 March without all 3 of our big players. While this is obviously not ideal, it does provide someone else with the opportunity to step up and attain hero status! Failing that, we will need a few growth spurts!
Thanks to all for their support.
Jim 28/2/11
24 February 2011
Manchester Mystics Under 18s 100 - 29 Stockport Spartans Under 18s
23 February 2011
Manchester Mystics 62 - 43 Mansfield Giants
16 February 2011
Manchester Mystics Under 18s 104 - 25 Barrow Thorns Under 18s
15 February 2011
Manchester Mystics 76 - 54 Bury Blue Devils
9 February 2011
Manchester Mystics 58 - 61 Haringey Angels
Under 16 Girls Sureshot Cup Final
8 February 2011
Manchester Mystics 105 - 40 Team Northumbria 2
A Mystics Senior Women's side with almost as many players missing - they weren't actually missing as I did know where they were - as available (7 cf 8) ultimately proved too strong for a gallant Northumbria II at the Amaechi BC last Saturday in front of a packed crowd (17!). Recently in training, we have been working on trying to be less static on offense, both by not wearing nylon socks and by looking to move the ball on more quickly without it being stuck in anybody's hands. None of the ladies had sticky fingers on this occasion and the speed and pinpoint accuracy of their passing helped make the game even more of a pleasure to watch than the Wolves v Man. U. match which followed! Northumbria and the referees also played their part in this and, despite the unflattering scoreline, the visitors certainly had their moments during the afternoon.
This win was essentially a victory for uncomplicated team basketball with all 8 Mystics registering in the first quarter. Starting for the first time, the non-stop Lucy Rogan scored straight from the tip-off and buckets from strong drives by Pauline Thivillier, Emma Macready, Nicki Blakeway and Natalie Feurtado were mixed in with medium range baskets from Jamie Curtis (which had no element of luck about them, so I can't justifiably re-name her Jammie!) and Charlotte Hughes, plus a couple of 3s fromTracey Caton thrown in ( more swished than thrown, to be honest) for good measure.
Northumbria's talented guard, R.Lonsdale responded with 6 points of her own but the Noth-Easterners found themselves trailing 30-10 at the end of a first quarter full of flowing basketball and eye-catching first-time passing, especially from Pauline, Jamie, Tracey and Lucy. That said, Mystics didn't have things all their own way in the second period. 3s from R.Wall and the persistent J.Cooper were instrumental in them pushing their tally up to 24 by half-time. Unfortunately for them, they could not stop Emma's powerful drives which earned her 10 points in the quarter. On top of this, Mystics' excellent decision-making enabled them to continually open up the opposition's zone defence more often than Fergie looks at his watch during a close game! Two 2s from hot-shot Charlotte and a buzzer-beating 3 from Tracey from almost outside the front door, meant that we changed round 31 points up, at 55-24.
However, it was our opponents who came out with all guns blazing after the interval as a result of either a motivational talk from their coach or plenty of Red Bull! My half-time chat can't have been a 'pearler' as it must have proved as inspiring as listening to Opera - Northumbria hit a commendable 10 points in a mere 4 minutes. Words like 'lazy' and 'sloppy' may well have been bandied about and thereafter we only gave up 1 basket in the following 14 minutes of basketball!
We took the third stanza 24-12 and the fourth 26-4 to finish 105-40 with everyone getting, and making the most of, good minutes. This includes Natalie, who did remarkably well in only her second senior appearance. Points wise Nicki (30), Emma (25), Pauline(17) and Charlotte(12) had the lion's share but, for me, the most pleasing statistic was that the team created an incredible 37 assists for one another (cf Northumbria's 4) with everyone making at least 1 and Pauline an amazing 9, Tracey 8 and Lucy 6.Nicki and Jamie were like a pair of efficient pick-pockets, combining to secure 10 steals and the team managed to out-rebound the opposition 47-33 even without our centres Mollie Campbell and Charlene Ward. Pauline weighed in with13 boards to leave her just 1 assist shy of a triple double (or is that darts?)
Thank you, ladies for a most enjoyable spectacle. Thanks, also to helpers and supporters. Next up, it's Bury at home at 3.30pm next Saturday 12 February.
Jim 7/2/11
3 February 2011
Sefton 49 - 69 Manchester Mystics
This period was also very even, and although youngsters Leah, Ashley and Lucy Rogan tried hard to up the tempo, this proved as futile as trying to eat soup with a fork! It took a late basket from Emma Macready to tilt the balance our way, 24-22, as the half-time whistle served as a packet of Settlers and brought relief to all concerned!
To say that we hadn't been at our best is as much a case of stating the obvious as the commentator who declared that the footballer Manuel Alonso is 'a Spaniard from Spain.' During the half-time break, we highlighted a couple of areas for improvement and the team's response was most pleasing.Tracey Caton's first 3 shots of the third period all found their mark and we soon found an offensive rhythm which had been conspicuous by its absence in the first half. To be fair, Sefton also upped their game and despite the top-rate defensive job Nicki Blakeway was doing on the ever-dangerous Ruth Cass, they managed 16 points in the quarter. Fortunately, we hit 23, with the rapidly improving Sinead Ennis opening her account and Ashley proving virtually unstoppable.
The fourth quarter turned out to be a 3 point shooting clinic from Mystics point of view. The fiercely focussed Leah swished 3 of them, Charlotte Hughes sank 1 and Nicki decided not to let the younger end have it all their own way and followed suit with one of her own. The accuracy of our outside shooting opened up the inside and Pauline and Ashley used this to good effect so that a 2 point half-time lead had been extended to as many as 20 at 69-49 by the end of a game played in excellent spirit which was very well refereed. The fact that the ladies had been able to step up their game so dramatically was down to nothing other than executing the fundamentals more carefully and to some first-rate defensive performances from every single Mystic. (None of them are married!)
As always, thanks to all for their support and their cars!
Jim. 3/2/11
1 February 2011
Doncaster U18 59 - 56* Manchester Mystics U18
25 January 2011
Ilkeston Outlaws 27 - 119 Manchester Mystics
20 January 2011
Sevenoaks 63 - 47 Manchester Mystics
Under 18 Cup Semi-Final
18 January 2011
Stockport Lapwings 78 - 79 Manchester Mystics
11 January 2011
Sunderland Predators 34 - 73 Manchester Mystics
21 December 2010
Mid-Term Report on Mystics Teams
13 December 2010
N Trophy: Manchester Mystics 38 - 86 Durham
U18 QF: Manchester Mystics 68 - 40 Barrow
U16 QF: Manchester Mystics 73 - 35 Hatfield
With our resources stretched almost to breaking point as a consequence of having to send 3 diluted teams to various northern tourist attractions, I suppose we must be thankful that 2 of the 3 escaped with victories to progress to their respective semi-finals. Despite fielding 4 under 14 players, Mystics 'U18s' survived some first half wobbles to come through 68-40 at Barrow. Our U16s seemingly made light of being without 4 of their strongest members to comfortably see off Hatfield 73-38. Something had to give and, for once, it was our not-so-senior Senior Women. Without those on duty for the U16s and U18s, as well as the hugely influential Nicki Blakeway and Charlene Ward, we lacked the fire power and experience to offer a concerted challenge to the much-vaunted Durham Bobcats.
We were reduced to going with a side whose average age was a shade over 18 against opponents who actively recruit players and who had already overturned 1st Division opposition this season. Even though their first 5 are very athletic and all stand over 6 feet (1 or 2 of them might be so sitting down!) and N.Caichero-Quintas - that's only 1 person - hit two 3 point fade-away jump shots with a defender up her nose, we made an encouraging start to be well placed at 6-8 after 4 minutes, with the excellent duo of Pauline Thivillier and Mollie Campbell looking far from out of place. Unfortunately, being confronted by bigger, longer, physically much stronger and vastly more experienced players, we were unable to contain all of Durham's talented scoring threats. The lead had grown to 11 by the end of the first quarter at 12-23, with Pauline and Mollie our sole scorers.
It's far from easy to hang on under such circumstances, but the girls showed real mettle (as opposed to the artificial stuff!) to stage a mini recovery. Emma Macready and Mel Golaub took it in turns to try to curb the league's top scorer, ex-NCAA star, Leah Rush. In spite being at least 6 inches smaller than her, and having no chance of beating her at arm wrestling, both did a sterling job. Buckets from the 14 year old Leah McDerment and the considerably older 15 year old Mollie, raised spirits as we fought back to 20-29, with Jamie Curtis playing superb help defence. Sadly, this proved to be the high point. Under immense pressure, created by excessively long arm spans, too many passes were intercepted and we were unable to incorporate any pass fakes into our reportoire. Confidence was severely dented by a devastating 7 minute 2-19 run as we suddenly played scared, becoming too passive and static on offense. Almost from out of nowhere, barring a remarkable change in fortune, the game had virtually gone away from us at 22-48.
Only 3 Mystics had managed to score thus far and our normally reliable outside shooting prowess was even less evident than an honest MP. This aspect of our game had to improve significantly if we were to have any chance of making inroads from hereon in. It didn't. Pauline, alone, was able to keep the scoreboard rolling. To their credit, Nat Feurtado, Katie Rowlands and Sinead Ennis all tried hard to make an impact but to no avail. We mixed up our defences but whatever we attempted, Durham seemed to come up with an answer. As such, the defecit continued to grow during the third period.
A commendable all-round fourth quarter effort restricted the north-easterners (that's north-east England, America and Spain!) to a well-below par 15 points &, although we lost heavily 38-86, to quote 1 of the referees:
''It was never a 48 point game.''
Indeed. I know that that's small consolation but the girls can take heart from the fact that Durham felt the need to stick with their first 5 for the vast majority of the game, and their substitutions were as frequent as goals from Gary Neville. Mystics made them work for nearly all they got and it is certainly no disgrace to be come up short when faced with such a gifted team.
Of course, lessons can be learned but there is no need for dispondency. We have a very young team on a big learning curve who are having a very good season. Set backs are inevitable but can have a positive effect and games such as this provide valuable experience which should stand everyone in good stead for the future. Hopefully, it will inspire our players to do all they can to raise the bar, both as individuals as a unit.
Thanks to the usual suspects, plus Mike Thomas, Steve Brierley, Graham Williams, Julie Joyce and Mark Benson for their help during a difficult week-end.
Jim 13/12/10.
29 November 2010
Under 18 Manchester Mystics 71 - 14 Sefton
Mystics U18s trip to Siberia, sorry, Sefton last Saturday provided a prime example of the need to warm up thoroughly -- to avoid hyperthermia! The sports hall was colder than an unkissed Eskimo's nose and we had to throw off the ice-skaters before we could start!
With our U16s also in action at Stockport, we travelled with as many parents as players (8 - 1 less and we could have been magnificent!) and the re-vamped first 5 of Tracey Caton, Charlotte Hughes, Mollie Campbell, Lucy Rogan and Holly Rush began impressively to give us a 12-0 lead after only 4 minutes, with Charlotte and Holly hitting from medium range and Mollie looking as sharp as a newly sharpened scalpel inside.
Mel Golaub then came off the bench, without, for once, tripping over Natalie Feurtado en route. She and the effervescent Lucy both scored on the break before Sefton's Vicky Parr made a 3 point play to close the first quarter at 18-3.
The girls maintained their defensive intensity during the second period, but our passing became as sloppy as undercooked porridge with too much milk in it. We were only able to add 12 points to make it 30-5 by half-time. Only Tracey and Natalie looked fully conscious and we were as static as a frozen octogenerian with rickets on offense. No player movement means no ball movement. No ball movement means no offense. No offense means no more than 12 points in the quarter!
If the girls were as effective as Ryan Giggs' right foot before the break, they were as magical as Cesc Fabregas's twinkling tootsies after it! They moved the basketball with precision and pace. Mollie and Lucy shone more brightly than Fergie's red hooter after another gallon of wine to help us run in 26 points in 10 minutes, conceding a mere 5, with Katie Rowlands moving her feet like a female Michael Flattley! (That girl will do anything to keep warm!)
Sefton continued to work hard defensively and restricted us to 15 fourth quarter points, but they could only contrive to score 2 baskets themselves. The 71-14 victory leaves us with a 6-0 league record ahead of our next league fixture at home to second placed Nottingham on19 December.
Prior to that, there is a small matter of 3 quarter final Cup/Trophy games, all on 12 December and all away! The women go to Durham, the U18s are at Barrow and the u16s visit Hatfield, Doncaster, not an itinerary to be found in any holiday brochure! This will inevitably put a huge strain on our resources in terms of players, coaches and transport. To give all 3 teams a fighting chance of going through to the semis, we will be shuffling players around and will be calling upon the U14s starting 5 to perform, some for the U16s and some for the U18s. We will also be desperate for parents willing to give lifts, so if you are able to hlep please let the team managers, Aline, Angie or Marion know. Thanks.
JIm 6/12/10
29 November 2010
Manchester Mystics 70 - 48 Sheffield Hatters 2
Mystics' trip abroad to the wrong side of the Pennines to face Sheffield Hallam Hatters last Saturday, proved worthwhile despite a start that was shakier than Shakin' Stevens! Sheffield's starting 5 couldn't have eaten any lunch because they began in a far more hungry fashion than we did. Maybe our first 5 were missing our injured charismatic captain Nicki 'glass ankles' Blakeway, or maybe they were still getting acclimatised to the Yorkshire air but, for whatever reason, we began sluggishly (and that's being unkind to slugs!).
Sheffield are very strong at guard and at small forward, but they lack height. Consequently, the first quarter was a matter of us trying to quell the speedy drives of their talented top scorers, Lauren Lindsay and Ellis Clayton while they attempted to find a way to prevent us scoring inside. Neither side found a solution in the opening 10 minutes, which ended 16-15. 14 of our points came in the Paint from Charlene Ward, Pauline Thivillier and Mollie Campbell, whereas all of Sheffield's points were off drives or free throws.
We were far from our best. Our offense was stagnant, suffering from a lack of player movement and a resultant lack of ball movement, with only Pauline looking on song. Our defence was reactive rather than proactive, which is surprising because most of the time, most of the players tend to be hyper-active! As they usually do, the girls listened to my ramblings and a request to up the tempo, move the basketball more quickly and deny penetration off the dribble. We felt the benefits to the tune of 23-9 in the second period with some excellent play. Charlene was now looking sharper than a Stanley knife, but mid-way in the quarter she tried to juggle a strong pass on the tip of her finger. Naturally, if you try to shove a delicate part of the human body through a fully pumped up ball, there is only one winner. Something had to give and unfortunately, it was Charlene's, now broken, finger, ending her involvement, both in the game and as a potential concert pianist!
Players were now running much harder to get ahead of the ball and we were turning the ball over less against the press. Jamie Curtis, Leah McDerment and Tracey Caton are all blessed with top-rate passing range and accuracy (except in the dark!) which enables them to fuel a plethora of fast break opportunities. Today, it was the turn of Pauline and an in-form Emma Macready to reap the rewards. A 2 and a 3 from the top of the key from Leah emphasised our outside threat whilst Sheffield's major weapon had been subdued by some much-improved help-defence, notably from Lucy Rogan & Mollie Campbell. Clayton and Lindsay were now given less time and space to operate under the close scrutiny of Pauline and Jamie, so that the half-time scoreline of 39-24 made sweet reading for the non-illiterate amongst us. It had also proved, once more, that this team possesses fighting qualities as well as ability. (They paid me to say that!)
The third stanza (a posh word for 'bit of the match'!) was a strange affair. I don't know if it was a full moon but Sheffield became far more aggressive and feisty. Curiously, however, somehow, we were the ones who got into foul trouble! (We all know that Lancashire rules, but maybe these were Yorkshire rules !?) A number of baffling calls & non-calls side-tracked us all & caused us to lose focus & rhythm. Like Lord Lucan, we went missing! This enabled the Hatters to share a quarter, during which they seemed to be permanently at the free-throw line, 15-15 at 54-39.
We had to re-gain our focus to concentrate solely on our game for the final 10 minutes to secure victory. Offensively, we did so to some extent so that we scored a slightly below par16 points in the quarter, including a buzzer-beating 3, this time from Tracey, rather than from Charlotte Hughes, which was so far out that it should have been a 5 pointer! Defensively, everyone did so superbly. Although on 4 fouls, Leah defended with great discipline and intelligence. Sinead Ennis was asked to match up with the bigger Lauren Lindsay and did so with great credit, as Pauline had done throughout. Mollie's mature performance meant that we didn't feel the loss of Charlene too acutely and Jamie looked as though she had never been away. Consequently, it was hardly surprising that our gallant opponents could only muster 9 fourth quarter points to finish 70-48.
The physical nature of the contest had brought the very best out of Pauline, who led the way in scoring and rebounding. Emma and Mollie each found ways to score in double figures as we continued to heavily out-rebound our opponents once again. Our superior 2 point shooting conversion rate (54%cf 26%) was a consequence of our first-class team defence in the second and fourth quarters. It more than compensated for the fact that Sheffield were somehow awarded 29 free throws while we were given just 13 and helped us move to 6 and 0 in the league. Well done ladies!
Thanks to all for their support and to Charlene, Paul, Steve and Sinead for the taxi service.
Jim 29/11/10
23 November 2010
Manchester Mystics 44 - 60 Nottingham
Cup wins over Bury and Stockport meant that Mystics Senior Women (something of a misnomer for such a young squad!) were through to the last 8 as 1 of only 2 Second Division sides left in the competition. Fate had not been kind to us as we had been drawn away to last year's finalists Nottingham Wildcats. Along with Sheffield Hatters and UWIC, Nottingham are 1 of the best 3 teams in Britain and have several internationals with experience of playing in America and Europe, as well as a professional American guard, plus ex-Mystics starlet, Amelia Reynolds, at their disposal. They are also very big!
They had slaughtered a decent Second Division outfit, Worcester Wolves in the previous round by a staggering 70 points. Daunting as all this was, we travelled to the Wildcat Arena (formerly known as the Jesse Boot Arena - sounds more like a big shoe shop!) on a coach with very hard seats full of expectation. The question was, were we expecting to be unable to compete or were we confident of giving them a run for their money? Jamie Curtis had come through the Mansfield game with no ill effects other than a stiff neck caused by looking up at our opponents. Nicki Blakeway was walking without a limp for the first time for a month, Tracey Caton had sipped so many Lemsips that she had recovered from her bout of girl/bird flu and Pauline Thivillier's chest infection had finally made its way down to her feet. The players looked sharp and ready during the warm-up, fully aware that nothing but our very best would do.
The first 5 of Nicki, Pauline, Emma Macready, Charlotte Ward and Leah McDerment contained just 2 members with experience at this level but I was confident that they could hold their own. The opening 5 minutes were a struggle, particularly on offense. Only Pauline seemed prepared to try anything positive and even her strong drives were unproductive against an unyielding defence. Our tallest player, Charlene looked like a midget compared to Hannah Shaw, the player she was marking and Hannah hit all 6 of her team's points during the first 4 minutes as Nottingham led 0-6. Despite being nearer the size of Ronnie Corbett, I then put the more experienced Nicki on Hannah. She did such a good job on her that Hannah could only add 1 bucket and a free throw to her tally over the next 6 minutes! Nicki had also shown the way offensively by way of a delightful left-hand drive to give us our first score. This seemed to settle everyone and 2-6 soon became 6-6 thanks to a short-range jumper (which isn't an item of clothing!) from Charlene plus 2 free throws from the excellent Pauline. We even looked set to end the quarter on level terms at 9-9, courtesy of a 3 from Emma, before a buzzer-beating 3 from American professional Phynique Allen, who had been brilliantly subdued by Leah, made it 9-12.
It was a great shame that this speculative shot had dropped in because, otherwise, the ladies would have sat down on a real high, following a superb defensive effort. As it was, they were disappointed not to be on even terms. Pyschologically, this,and a shattering injury to Nicki's 'good' ankle early in the second period which prevented her from taking any further part in the game, proved to be 1 of 2 major turning points. Despite Mollie Campbell filling in bravely & effectively, Nicki's presence was sorely missed, especially on offence. Nottingham had put on a full-court press and without their captain's calming influence, the young team took a while to come to terms with it. As a result, we trailed 9-26 before 2 baskets from Emma brought it to13-26 by the interval. Although 13 was a meagre total, restricting our illustrious opponents to 26 was a real achievement.
Things got better as the team responded positively to the half-time chat. A 3-point play from Pauline and a 3-pointer from the classy, but not yet match fit, Jamie Curtis cut into the lead at 19-26. This prompted Nottingham to resort to a zone which threw us for short time and saw them go up by 21-32. We have several very capable shooters in our midst but they had yet shyed away from showing it. A swisher from Pauline, followed by a 2 and a 3 from Leah then shook our opponents as we pressed them all over the court, with Lucy Rogan belying her inexperience and stature. We had clawed our way back to 26-34 with 3 minutes remaining in the third. The second major turning point was now set to occur & I take full responsibility for it. Partly in an attempt to maintain energy levels, I rested the tired legs of Jamie and Pauline. I also brought off Emma who was in foul trouble. I had already managed to get 10 of our 11 players on court and I wanted to get the eleventh one on, too. The press had been effective so I continued with it. The combination of these decisions proved disastrous. 26-34 turned to 26-46 in the time it takes to burn a slice of toast, as our now inexperienced defence crumbled.
The margin had moved up to 26 at 26-52 before a remarkable transformation occured. Mystics embarked on a magnificent 14-0 run with 3 more 3 pointers from Leah and one from Tracey, as well as a 2 from the corner by Pauline. Sadly, it was too little, too late despite 2s from Charlene and Charlotte Hughes at the death made it 44-60.
Once the team had conquered their nerves and had recovered, in part, from the blow of losing Nicki, they had shown that they certainly can compete at this level. I was proud of their performance and I am convinced that, with more games at this level, we could run even the very best close.
Thanks to all for their valued support and help
Jim 22//11/10
22 November 2010
Manchester Mystics 69 - 42 Mansfield Giants
It did not take long to realise why Saturday's visitors for our Senior Women were called Mansfield Giants. They were huge! Most of them must have been brought up in greenhouses! Mansfield came with a 4-1 winning record and 2 major scoring threats in the league's best 3-point shooter, J.Richards, along with the player with the best 2-point shooting percentage, C.Leavitt. Leavitt is big and strong and used her size to put her side 0-4 up straightaway. This resulted in a change of match-ups which limited her impact and brought us an initial 8-7 lead. I had never seen Mansfield play before, but was aware that they had beaten Mystics last season, and could not be under-estimated. I felt that we could make things as uncomfortable for them as walking with a small pebble in your shoe if we could make them run. To do this, we would need to control the boards, which would not be easy against a much bigger team. They had the 3 tallest players on show, and the fact that the very tallest of them did not secure a single rebound in the entire 19 minutes that she was on court, speaks volumes for our girls, with Charlene Ward, Leah McDerment and a still-off-colour Pauline Thivillier (she looked purplish today) amassing 27 rebounds between them without the use of a trampoline!
Our dominance in this area meant that we could play up-tempo basketball, and did so to such good effect that we ended the 1st quarter with a blistering 17-5 run to give us a 25-12 lead. Emma Macready was oustanding during this time, hiitting12 points. A fit again (for the moment, at least!), Nicki Blakeway contributed 6, and the ever-consistent Leah, 5.
It was much the same at the beginning of the 2nd, as Pauline, Charlotte Hughes and Mollie Campbell opened their account to establish a comfort zone at 37-16. I had gone away from my usual policy of only selecting 10 players, and had 12 today both because I'm innumerate and in case any of our crocks broke down. Difficult as it is, I wanted to give as many of the 12 as I could some court time if possible. With this in mind, I made wholesale changes at this juncture. This almost inevitably hurt us offensively but pleasingly, we maintained our defensive solidity in a 7-2 run with scores from Mel Golaub and a 3 from Sinead Ennis.
To concede a miserly 18 points in the entire 1st half against a team with considerable fire-power was most commendable, and our focus remained throughout the 3rd period, which we took 15-9, with 4 points apiece for Charlene, Charlotte and Chollie, sorry, Mollie. (No doubt, if we'd had a player called Charlie she'd also have scored 4!) At 59-27, I was able to make even more regular substitutions during the 4th quarter so that everyone had at least 10 minutes playing time. Mansfield's talented playmaker, G. Richards made the most of this to inspire her side to a mini-comeback to leave the game finishing at 69-42.
Aside from the victory, the most pleasing aspects of the day were the way the team restricted one of the league's leading scorers, Jo Richards to a below-par 10, the return of the injured Jamie Curtis, plus the fact that we had yet another spread of point-scoring throughout the team, and everyone had contributed to a fine all-round defensive display. The team actually performed well enough to take my mind off the disastrous goings on at the Emirates prior to the tip-off. It had been all I could do not to break down in tears as Arsenal squandered a 2-nil lead, to lose to arch-enemies, the flukey, jammy, lucky, spawny, scummy Tottering Hotspur!
Thanks to all for your help & support
JIm 22/11/10
18 November 2010
Manchester Mystics 76 - 33 Bury
(Women's National Trophy Round 2)
17 November 2010
Manchester Mystics 59 - 53 Bury
Last Thursday's league game at Bury turned out to be tougher than over-cooked duck. It did not help that we had enough injured or ill players to occupy a whole series of Casualty, as Nicki Blakeway, Jamie Curtis & Katie Rowlands were about as mobile as Douglas Bader with Emma Macready, Pauline Thivillier & Lucy Rogan feeling as fit as a broken fiddle. We were also caught unawares by the fact that the sports hall at Elton, which is usually cold enough to trouble Eskimos, was, for once, at least a pop group (3 degrees) above freezing.
Prior to the tip, I did warn the team not to be complacent. We had already beaten the Blue Devils (who were in white!) comfortably in the Trophy right at the start of the season but, being a know-it-all, I knew that they would be determined to put on a better show this time, particularly since they are the only Division 2 side who have run Durham close, as yet. From the very start, it was obvious that we were in for a battle. Bury's defence was infinitely more effective than on the previous occasion & they seemed in no mood to roll over. By comparison,we appeared as in tune as an out-of -tune radio in the early stages. Consequently, we were fortunate to shade the 1st quarter 12-10. Most of our points came via Mollie Campbell & Charlene Ward inside but we did not make the most of their strengths & were too ready to dribble needlessly around the perimeter. Indeed, we only won the quarter by dint of a last seconds score from Charlotte Hughes.
We needed to be better in the next period. We weren't. Pauline had done a first-class job on the high-scoring Mel Hills but would have to be used sparingly due to breathing difficulties.(Her iron lung was mal-functioning!) Anytime Pauline wasn't marking her, Mel cashed in like someone who has discovered that a cash machine was dishing out someone else's £20 notes. She piled in 15 of her side's 26 first half points only for Mystics to stumble to 28, with Leah McDerment standing out with 7 points in an even 2nd period.
We needed to be better in the next period! We were.... Significantly. The team came out after the interval looking as though they meant business. Unstoppable drives from Pauline & Leah instantly gave us the impetus we required. Free throws from Emma & Ashley Tensel, plus points in the Paint from Charlene & Mollie capped a much improved showing in the 3rd, which we dominated to the tune of 20-13. Our guards, Lucy, Leah, Ashley, Mel Golaub, Tracey Caton & Sinead Ennis continued to counter the considerable threat of Bury's sharp-shooting guards, although Mel Hills was still causing problems (not through hyper-activity or turrets but because she is a nuisance both in & out of the key.)
The ladies managed to maintain the 11 point lead right up to the final minute, moving the basketball with intent & playing resolute defence. The game then appeared to become closer than it actually was, thanks to 5 unanswered points, including a 3 point buzzer-beating brick, to finish 59-53 with Pauline as Mystic's outstanding performer & joint leading scorer, along with Leah, Charlene & Ashley.
Thanks to all for their support & help.
JIm 16/11/10
15 November 2010
U18 Manchester Mystics 81 - 43 U18 Northants
Mystics Under 18s long trek south to play Northants last Saturday was as eventful as it was rewarding. The journey was so straightforward that we arrived 2 hours before tip off but were unable to get into the sports hall until 25 minutes prior to the start. It's amazing how much gossip you can eavesdrop on in 1 hour 25 minutes!
Once we had tipped, it immediately became apparent that the game was going to be a stop-start affair - the floor was more conducive to ice skating than basketball, and we were called for 18 fouls in the 1st half alone! (That's almost a full season's worth in 20 minutes!) Even so, the girls showed their pedigree in the 1st quarter to muster 25 points and a 14 point lead. Mollie Campbell was proving virtually unstoppable in the Paint and thrived on a string of pin-point feeds from Leah McDerment, Tracey Caton and Ashley Tensel.
We made a dreadful beginning to the 2nd period, partly as a consequence of being blown for 6 team fouls in just 4 minutes (possibly a world record?). A re-juvenated Northants benefited from this to the tune of 9 free throws which enabled them to come back to within 6 at 22-28. To paraphrase James Bond, we needed shaking, not stirring. We had a grown-up discussion during a time-out. I urged (a word I often muddle with 'begged') the players to ignore all the negative influences surrounding them and to re-focus on doing what they do well. By that, I wasn't asking Mel Golaub to fall on the floor and start laughing or Lucy Rogan to start speaking French. I merely wanted them to raise their game. They did. A 14-5 run made it 43-27 by half- time, as Charlotte 'Happy Feet' Hughes found her shooting range.
Our next cosy chat came during the interval and revolved around upping our defensive intensity, as well as keeping our hands out to minimise any calls for fouls (or foul calls!) Everyone's response was admirable. We won the 3rd stanza 16-4 with Cath Meakin and Hannah Alty working tirelessly alongside Tracey, Leah, Lucy, Charlotte and Ashley to negate whatever Northants had to offer. I have no doubt that Mollie would have been equally industrious, but she was gathering splinters on the bench due to being on 4 fouls, the 4th of which was called right after the 3rd, as I was desperately trying to sub her.
Lucy's impressive shift came to a premature end part way through the 4th, as she,too, picked up 2 fouls in less time than it takes to stir a cup of tea! Mel then took time off from trying to chat up a bloke whose lap she ended up sitting on following a headlong dive into the crowd to score 10 points in a hurry (how else?) to cap another fine personal display. Mollie returned to reap more havoc, Cath was legged up by the ref, as well as being punished for failing to say 'pardon,' Ashley was temporarily blind in one eye & the MnMs (Mel & Mollie) joined Leah, Charlotte and Tracey on double figures in a roller coaster 81-43 victory. As I said earlier, it was an eventful day!
Thanks to City fans Paul & Les, plus soon to be converted, Steve for their taxi service & to Michelle for giving the girls in her car an unscheduled guided tour of Buckinghamshire!
Jim 15/11/10
8 November 2010
Manchester Mystics 96 - 30 Team Northumbria 2
Last Sunday, Mystics Senior Women travelled part way to the North Pole to play Northumbria II. It took us 2 and a half hours to get to Tyne Met College, and then nearly the same amount of time to find a way in! In the absence of our 2 principle point guards, Jamie Curtis and Leah McDerment, Tracey Caton and Ashley Tensel were assigned to share the role on this occasion. Both acquitted themselves very well. Tracey started and quickly followed captain, Nicki Blakeway's lead by swishing a 3 to put us 8-2 up after just 3 minutes. Pauline Thivillier, Charlene Ward, Ashley, Mollie Campbell, Charlotte Hughes and debutant, Mel Golaub also all opened their account during the 1st period which we won 18-8. It's not easy for opposing teams when the scoring comes from so many different sources. It's a bit like opening a big box of chocolates and being told to pick just 1!
As soon as Emma Macready scored at the beginning of the 2nd quarter, all 9 Mystics were up and running after only 11 minutes. 3 quick buckets from Charlene served to underline our superiority as the whole quarter turned into a procession. It's rare to see every player in a team play really well throughout an entire game, but it happened today. Northumbria's zone was torn to pieces in 10 minutes of delightful team basketball which yielded 24 points shared equitably amongst 7 players. 18-8 had become 42-10 in about the same amount of time it takes Alex Ferguson to bully the referee into adding on when United aren't winning!
Northumbria deseve credit for coming out in determined mood after the break. They upped their defensive effort so that 5 minutes into the 3rd stanza, we had only managed 4 points to their 3. This prompted me to call a time-out, and I wish I could remember exactly what I said because the response was phenomenal! In a mere 5 minutes, we amassed an incredible 25 points! Everyone contributed significantly in one way or another, but I do want to give Mel a special mention. She could have been forgiven for being nervous (or still half asleep since we had to set off at 8.00a.m. on a Sunday morning!) but her first performance at this level was truly wonderful. She stole the ball, pulled loads of rebounds, scored from inside and outside, as well as making her free throws, and all with a huge smile on her face, as we raced to a 71-18 lead.
The fun eventually ended with the scoreboard showing 96-30. It had been a thoroughly enjoyable day. The game was played in a terrific spirit (apart from 1 wayward body slam on Pauline!). It had been extremely well refereed. Every Mystic had scored at least 8 points (to emphasise our focus on 'the Team.') As a bonus, the girls were given hot dogs afterwards and it didn't snow on the way home!
Sincere thanks to Nicki, Donald & Paul T for providing the taxi service, and very well played ladies!
4 November 2010
Manchester Mystics 54 - 45 Stockport Lapwings
(Women's National Cup Round 2)
3 November 2010
Under 18 Manchester Mystics 102 - 36 Under 18 Barrow
The introduction of our greyhounds, Mel Golaub, Nat Feurtado and Cath Meakin guaranteed more of the same as Holly & Katie Rowlands cleaned up on the boards to make the 1st quarter 22-3. Lucy had been heavily involved in most of the good things that we had done, aided and abetted by Charlotte, Ashley and Cath as far as points were concerned in the 2nd stanza. Despite this, the Barrow team kept their heads up and managed 13 points of their own, thanks primarily to the tireless efforts of A.Knowles & K.Smith, in particular.
Our up-tempo game did gradually wear down our opponentas in the 3rd, so that we took it 31-5 but Barrow again rallied and accurate long-range shooting by R. Cavanagh, alongside determined play from P.Carr and E.Watts was rewarded with 15 points in the quarter to leave the final score at 102-36. Pleasingly, Charlotte, Lucy, Ashley, Cath and Mel all made double figures as court time was shared evenly amongst all 10 team members which is not a strategy to be found at many clubs, and cannot be guaranteed to occur in tight games.
2 November 2010
Manchester Mystics 63 - 50 Sefton Starlights
Things improved in the 2nd period. Katie Rowlands used her height to good advantage to provide us with early momentum. Pauline Thivillier & Leah McDerment showed their undoubted class and stretched Sefton's zone by way of some accurate long-range shooting which opened up the key for Charlene, Katie & Emma Macready. We eased through the quarter 20-11, to lead 35-23 at the half.
I used the bench (not literally!) more liberally after the break (during which we all had a Kit-Kat!). Both the 3rd & 4th quarters proved to be very even & highlighted some positive aspects for the team. Lucy Rogan gave her all, as she always does. She has made herself into a player who looks at home at this level (but only when she's standing on a box!) In limited minutes, she made 2 steals plus an assist. Her energy and enthusiasm were infectious. Charlotte Hughes wasn't afforded the room to display her fine shooting ability, but she found a way to contribute via a creditable 6 rebounds. Ashley Tensel did well to recover from a number of initial turn-overs to cause problems with her powerful drives which drew 3 fouls. Katie showed that she may have a future in decorating, excelling in the Paint! She notched an impressive 8 points during her 13 minutes on court in a pleasing performance.
As usual, Charlene topped the rebounds list with 13 and, as usual, she, Pauline and Leah scored in double figures. Emma Macready caught the eye (not by wearing orange fluorescent socks) with a tireless defensive display, as did Ashley, Leah & Tracey, who all did a great job containing Sefton's professional Spanish guard, A.Casado-Dorado - a name that's worth a few points in Scrabble!
We eventually ran, and sometimes only trotted, out winners 63-50 without ever really being at our best. Herein, praise must go to our opponents for making things difficult for us throughout a game played in excellent spirit and well refereed.
Thanks to all for their help & support.
Jim 2/11/10
25 October 2010
Under 18 Manchester Mystics 73 - 52 Under 18 St Mirren
Knowing that St. Mirren's U18s were sure to be well-organised, I wanted to start with a very strong 5. I opted for Tracey Caton, Leah McDerment, Lucy Rogan, Holly Rush & Mollie Campbell, as these players give us a well-balanced group with some height, lots of pace, an inside threat and great outside shooting. More importantly, these young ladies really do know how to play together at both ends of the court. Defensively, they all read the game thoughtfully. Offensively, they share the ball and celebrate one another's success. It was the right choice.
I got the match ups slightly wrong at first, and this enabled the visitors to go 2-6 up. For the next 5 minutes, the spectators from both sides of the border (Manchester & Trafford!) were treated to a spectacular display from the aforementioned Mystics. Our guards, Tracey and Leah, quickly realised that Mollie's intelligent movement was leaving her open in the key, and they set her up (rather than stiched her up!) 4 times in as many offenses. Mollie obliged each time. Holly and Lucy scored skilfully on the break whilst Leah hit a 2, plus two 3s, during an awesome 18-2 run which was a sheer delight to witness.
No coach in their right mind would have altered anything just yet, but we had 12 players in today's line-up to try to keep reasonably happy. Most of them never moan about anything other than the price of shoes, so ideally, even though it is very hard to do, I wanted to get everyone on court in both halves if I could. Predictably, the substitutions interupted our rhythm so that the latter part of the 1st quarter was even at 6-6, with the ever-enthusiastic Katie Rowlands and the sharp-shooting Charlotte Hughes opening their account.
Being 26-14 to the good, I kept the 5 starters on the bench, but things failed to go to plan. We began the 2nd stanza by turning the ball over far too regularly. St. Mirren took full advantage to come back to within 4 at 26-22. The re-introduction of Tracey, Leah, Lucy and Mollie, with Katie, stabilised the defence and put an instant end to the turnovers. The combined height of Mollie and Katie (12 feet 4!) re-established our dominance on the boards, so that by half-time we were looking fairly comfortable at 37-28.
Like the sun in Manchester, Cath Meakin had been given little chance to shine before the interval. Her effective defence & unerring finishing made her stand out like a polo mint with no hole in it, afterwards. She and the on -form Mollie extended the gap to 18 at 50-32 with some majestic basketball before more wholesale changes - when will I ever learn ? - resulted in the rest of the quarter going 6-7 to our opponents.
To start the fourth, I went with Charlotte and Kayleigh Johnson to accompany the influential Mollie, Leah & Tracey. They played hard to open up a 27 point lead at 67-40 prior to more 'revolving door' substitutions which culminated in St. Mirren winning the final 5 minutes 6-12, despite 2 successful full court drives from the threatening Ashley Tensel. Our 73-52 victory, against a side who are not used to losing, was impessive for large chunks of the game but credit must also go to St. Mirren who pounced on any mistakes. Fortunately, there weren't many, and we remained loyal to the ethic of the team coming first, most of the time. There was, however, plenty to admire from an individual perspective.
In number order, Holly Rush worked tirelessly, ran the fast break and played excellent help defence. The same can be said of Lucy who always does the little things that hardly anyone notices so well, and is a real team player. Tracey Caton, the captain, now leads by example. Some of her long-range passing today had to be seen to be believed. Ashley Tensel posseses a truly explosive first step which she used regularly today to drive to basket. Mel Golaub began nervously, but soon showed that she is an amazing rebounder for her size, and has improved enormously in the past 3 months. Leah McDerment hit 3 more 3s in this game, and her heads-up play means that she is invariably able to see the whole court to make telling passes. (Today, they kept 'telling' Mollie to score!) Kayleigh Johnson, like William Tell, is an accurate shooter, but today she contented herself with good movement off the ball and good help defence. Charlotte Hughes is a formidable streak shooter. She combined this with a decent effort at the defensive end in the 2nd half. Cath Meakin can be too quick for her own good . Not on this occasion. She gave an exceptional performance. Mollie Campbell was the MVP. She was virtually unstoppable in a brilliant display of uncomplicated post play. Nat Feurtado gave her usual energetic appearance, and the only time she looked uncomfortable was when her supposed friend, Mel, sent her flying. It was a clear red card!
Katie Rowlands pulled more than her fair share of rebounds (but, happily, no muscles!), and would have had a bucket-load of buckets(!) if she hadn't been so over-eager. Slow down, Katie!
Thanks to all for their support and assistance.
Jim 25/10/10.
21 October 2010
Manchester Mystics 58 - 50 Stockport Lapwings
19 October 2010
Under 18 Manchester Mystics 80 - 49 Doncaster Panthers
Both teams performed like Tippex for the majority of the 1st quarter, cancelling each other out! Defensively, we stood as firm as Arsenal's legendary back 4 of yesteryear but were as decisive as an indecisive person offensively against Doncaster's efficient defence. Consequently,with 8 minutes gone, the score stood at a ludicrously low 7-6, with only Leah, as yet, able to score from open play for us. England & Division 1 player, Lucy Buxton had all 6 Doncaster points &, while we were doing a good job containing the other 4, we were giving Lucy too much room inside. This was not a great concern so long as we kept everyone else quiet.
Mollie had begun very well but had picked up 2 early fouls & to prevent her from getting into deeper foul trouble, I could either chop her arms off (which would make her 'armless) or replace her with Katie Rowlands. Having forgotten to bring my axe, I opted for the latter & a put back from Katie plus 2 free throws from the much-improved Mel Golaub helped us edge a dogged first 10 minutes 11-10. A close encounter of the first kind looked likely! I was very pleased with the way all the girls had hustled but we needed more composure & self-belief on offense. I stressed that our superior footspeed & athletism was our main weapon & would cause them to reach in, racking up fouls in the process, as Ashley had already proved. This would suit us as we undoubtedly had a stronger bench (which is very necessary with Donald sitting on it!)
Our start to the 2nd period was as uncertain as Wayne Rooney's future. Doncaster forged 13-16 ahead with Lucy our only scorer in the first 3 minutes. I called a time-out to ask for more focus (or failing that, a power cut!) and made some changes in personnel to try to give us a lift. Leah responded with a 3 but it was immediately answered by fellow international, Ashley Sumner. We trailed 16-20 half-way through the second quarter - if that makes sense - which was a creditable effort against such quality opposition but I truly believed that we could turn it round with greater self-belief and the right combination of players on the floor. Tracey had yet to score & was low in confidence following several misses. I reminded her that she is a good shooter and to keep firing if it was the best option. Whether it was or not, she did and, like the Germans in pre-Euro days, soon found the mark. This certainly settled her down and sparked a 16-6 run, with 6 from our streak shooter, Charlotte, a bucket from Mel and 5 out of 6 free throws.
We had now won both quarters so that there was no longer any reason for any of our young ladies to have any kind of inferiority complex (apart from those with 3 ears & 2 noses!) 2 free throws from Mollie straight after the break followed by 3s from Tracey & Leah set the scene. Cath Meakin then joined in the fun and contributed to giving us our largest lead so far at 42-32. This was extended to 14 at 50-36 by the end of the third, thanks principally to 5 more points from the outstanding Leah, another 3 from the sizzling Tracey & phenomenal defence from whoever else was on court at any given time. Our disciplined team defence meant that it was still only the impressive Lucy Buxton who was hurting us and she hit 8 of their 10 points in the stanza.
What followed in the fourth quarter was as unexpected as seeing good acting in Eastenders! Mystics embarked on a stunning 22-8 spree with Mollie, Charlotte, Nat Feurtado, Leah, Tracey & Cath all registering. During these 7 minutes, the girls literally over-ran one of the finest Under 18 teams in the country with a thrilling display of free-flowing basketball. The closing stages saw Ashley & Katie add to their tally to make the final margin of 31, at 80-49, as deserved as it was unexpected. Although Leah, Tracey and Charlotte led the scoring, this was essentially a magnificent all-round team performance of which everyone should be very proud.
Thanks to all for their help & support.
Jim 19/10/10
12 October 2010
Manchester Mystics U18 108 - 14 Northants Lightning
Northants Lightning are invariably like someone with lots of fillings - well drilled - but they struggled from the outset to cope with Mystics' up-tempo style of basketball. Tracey, Leah and Holly drained shots from the outside and Mollie proved too powerful inside the key early on. 8-1 soon became 29-1 by the end of the 1st quarter (which saw all 10 home players on the scoresheet), courtesy of, in sequence, a 3 point play from Leah, two 2s apiece from Tracey and Holly, a 2 and a 3 from Leah and lay ups from Mel Golaub and Charlotte Hughes.
We all associate lightning with wetness and it certainly rained 3s in the 2nd period. Charlotte (twice), Tracey (twice) and Ashley Tensel all followed Leah's lead (!) as we continued to dominate to such an extent that the game was already over as a contest by half-time at 58-3. Under such circumstances, what follows is never easy for either side. The team with the lead can easily become complacent and sloppy whereas the team who is trailing can often become dispirited and give up. To the credit of both sides, neither occured today. Mystics maintained their focus and Northants battled to the end, even though the deficit had grown to 72 , at 77-5 by the end of the 3rd period which was full of some wonderful long-range passing from Ashley, Lucy and Leah.
Northants refused to throw in the towel, possibly because it would have made showering afterwards difficult, and were rewarded with their most productive spell of the game during the last 5 minutes, doubling their tally to finish on the wrong end of a 108-14 scoreline but still full of spirit (as George Best regularly was!). No less than 6 Mystics recorded double figures. Tracey adopted a sniper's approach and shot on sight . It worked today and she led all scorers, closely followed by Leah and Mollie with Charlotte, Holly and Ashley on their heels. Lucy contented herself with doing all the little (but no less important) things well, Mel arrived late but made up for lost time by whizzing up and down the court like a cheetah pursuing its dinner, Katie and Mollie dominated the boards, Kayleigh fitted in seamlessly at both ends of the court (but not at the same time!) and everyone contributed to an awesome defensive display that thwarted almost everything that the opposition threw at them.
As an added bonus, the game may have provided us with a breakthrough in medical science. Leah fell heavily on her backside after converting a lay-up. Fortunately, not only did she quickly recover but her previously sore shins, Lucy's painful dead leg, Tracey's dodgy back, Ashley's problematic leg and Knatie's knackered knees (that's an illiteration!) all seemed to disappear at the same time! So next time anyone gets injured, Leah would you kindly....
Next up, on Saturday here at 1.00pm it's a battle of the roses against Doncaster. It could be a league decider, so all support welcome. Thanks to all who helped, especially Angie and Jayne.
JIm 12/10/10
12 October 2010
Manchester Mystics 89 - 39 Bury Wildcats
Women's National Cup Round 1
The beginning of the 3rd stanza was a similar story until Pauline, Nicki, Emma, Leah and Charlene clicked as a unit. Some of their passing was bordering on the telepathic. 47-26 became 62-28 in less time it takes Richard to break his toe! Lucy ensured that we got off to a flying start to the 4th quarter. She didn't hire a helicopter but she was on fire, scoring a rapid 7 points and pulling several offensive rebounds - a fine achievement for someone not much bigger than Ronnie Corbett! Leah added a brace of 2s, Charlotte swished a 3 and a 2 during another 16-4 spurt. The last 5 or 6 minutes saw more changes of personnel than at Man.City during the transfer window, enabling Bury to hold it to 11-6 as Ashley Tensel opened her account and 2 further baskets from the silky smooth Charlene saw her edge out Mollie as the game's leading scorer.
The final scoreline of 89-39 infers that it was a stroll for our ladies but there certainly wasn't any strolling. The margin of victory against a side who ran Mystics very close twice last season was only achieved because the whole team worked incredibly hard for each other throughout. Apart from Charlene and Mollie, Lucy, Pauline, Leah and Charlotte were also in double figures. Nicki is usually a heavy scorer (I nearly wrote drinker!) but today she opted to be the provider, along with Emma and an under the weather (as opposed to over it) Chelsea. Those 3 led in assists whilst Mollie and Leah claimed the most rebounds. Of the 19 steals the team managed, Ashley, Nicki, Leah and Emma all had 3 apiece to make it evident that this really was an occasion when every player made a positive contribution.
Many thanks to all who helped, especially Aline and Angie and support for our next game on Sunday 17 October at 4.30pm would be much appreciated. It's a local derby with reigning champions Stockport!
Jim 12/10/10
4 October 2010
Mystics Div 2 67 - 69 Leeds Carnegie Div 1
My major concern going into the 2nd half(apart from the fact rthat I hadn't had time to eat my lunch and that Chelsea had twice tried to see if her body would bounce off the floor when she dived for a loose ball) was that the ladies' 1st half efforts had taken so much out of them that our intensity might be diminished henceforth. After an initial trading of baskets,it appeared that my concern was about to be realised as Carnegie (them, not me) seized the initiative (and Leah's vest) to open up a 10 point gap at 38-48 at the 7 minute mark of the 3rd. I called/screamed for a time out with a view to dispersing any doubts that the girls might have about remaining competitive.Their response was magnificent. 5 points from Charlene, who had 8 in the quarter, 2s from the unerring Charlotte and Mollie, plus free throws from Tracey, made up an amazing 11-2 burst so that we trailed by just 1, 49-50 with 1 quarter to go.
The final period opened with R. Davidson suprising us (and maybe herself,too) by sinking a 3, having been off target with all of her previous attempts. This was accompanied by another powerful move inside by E.Velley, to leave us trailing by 6. Yet again, our comparitively young side showed great character to regain its composure and hit back. Nicki got things going with 2 more free throws before Leah and Mollie really came to the fore despite the incessant pressure being exerted. Leah swished a 3 prior to feeding Mollie inside for a lay up to make it 56-57. Our momentum was then disrupted whenLeah needed a break. We suffered as a result and found ourselves chasing the game once more at 58-64 with 3 minutes left.Could the team make 1 last sustained push? Of course! Tracey hit a 3, the now rested and re-introduced Leah made a foul shot, Pauline converted with a stunning drive off a clear out and Charlotte, who had been brought on to try and hit a 3, did so with her first touch!
The team had somehow battled back to 67-68(with Charlene's domination of the boards being paramount) as this thrilling encounter entered its final 30 seconds. They had opted to run the clock down. We were looking to prevent them from doing so by putting them on the foul line. Fortunately, it worked as they had missed 3 in a row before making 1. Helpfully for us, they then called a time out which enabled us to collect our thoughts and plan the game's final offense. The players got the ball exactly where we wanted it but just failed to put the ball in the hoop to leave the score at 67-69, with basketball the real winner.
With all 10 Mystics scoring and 9 out of 10 getting upwards of 15 minutes court time (sorry Lucy!), this occasion should prove to be hugely beneficial for the coming season. I was really proud of the way the team competed and look forward to the months ahead with optimism. We begin the season proper with a home tie in the National Cup against Bury, on Saturday, tip off 3.30pm.
Thanks to all for their help and support.
Jim 5/10/10
30 September 2010
Young MysticsSelected
A number of the Mystics girls have been invited to the October half term England training camps.
Ashley Tensel,Catherine Meakin and Hannah Alty will join Leah McDerment and Mollie Campbell at the Under 16s camp, and
Holly Rush, Katie Rowlands and Catherine Stansfield Boys will join the Under 18s squad .
We congratulate them and wish them every success in the future.
29 September 2010
Mystics Pre-Season Tournament
Once each team had been in action twice (if you see what I mean), it became evident that Glasgow wouild be the team to beat. They had already overcome Worcester and UWIC convincingly whilst we had begun with an impressive win over a defensively sound Leicester Riders by 63-28, based on an encouraging all-round team performance. Defensively, we were efficient and industrious, and offensively the players shared the ball selflessly and intelligently. Nicki Blakeway, Charlene Ward, Emma Macready and Leah McDerment all rebounded so effectively that we achieved an overall rebound figure of 67%. Our regular free throw practising also paid dividends in that we shot 70% from the line, Nicki leading by example with 9 out of 10. (This would be good enough to win a coconut at a fairground!) All 10 players each made good use of the generous amount of court time they received and I was very pleased with the energetic displays from Chelsea Tensel, Ashley Tensel, a few more Tensels, Tracey Caton, Charlotte Hughes and Katie Rowlands in the 4th quarter. (They made me out of breath just watching them fly - not literally - around the court.)
We then faced Sefton who had edged past Worcester 31-30 (what a sauce!) To be fair to Sefton, they were without their 2 biggest players and, like a lottery winner, we cashed in by out-rebounding them 44-17, with Charlene and Katie prominent. Despite games only being 15 minutes each way, we were so dominant that we ran in 87 points to win by 64, shooting a highly commendable 65% from the field. (We weren't playing out of doors on a farm. 'Field' is merely the terminology for shots which aren't free throws!) The under-sized Sefton - they had no-one over 3 feet 11 - tried hard but had no answer to the strength and power of Charlene, Emma and Ashley in the key and it was gratifying to see that all 10 Mystics got on the scoresheet.
Our final game on the Saturday was the one likely to decide 1st and 2nd place. Glasgow had reportedly performed outstandingly well in a tournament in Bristol 2 weeks previously and came with the reputation as probably the top women's side in Scotland. (They also came with plenty of Scottish £20 notes which they tried to pass off as real money!) Pauline Thivillier had missed our opening 2 games - the French take so long to eat their lunch! - but was available for this one and I was most grateful for her steadying influence and excellent defensive input. She started, along with Chelsea Tensel, Arsenal Blakeway, Manchester City McDerment and Everton Macready and these 5 certainly held their own against illustrious opponents. Nicki and Emma shared our first 11 points and a 3 from Leah, plus a 2 from Pauline, gave us a slender 16-14 lead mid way through the 1st half. I then rang the changes to give everyone the chance to pit themselves against quality opposition. I knew that it would be difficult for players to come off the bench cold and any blame for the fact that Glasgow made the most of the changes to establish a 13 point lead lies with me rather than any one else.
We did, then, put a lid on their 2 main scorers by putting more pressure on the ball and eventually took control of the boards, thanks principally to Charlene and Leah. Nicki and Charlene instigated the comeback with a series of powerful inside moves and superb team defence thwarted the Glaswegians attempts to wrestle back the initiative. Once we had drawn level, there was only one winner (2 aren't allowed!) and scores from Pauline, Charlotte, Ashley and Leah ensured a thoroughly commendable 58-53 victory. Accurate free throw shootiing had, again, proved our ally, with Nicki 5/7, Emma 3/3 and Charlotte 3/4 and had,essentially, tilted the game in our favour.
We went into Sunday's encounters without Nicki, as well as the injured Jamie Curtis and the holidaying Mollie Campell. UWIC began positively against us and their slick passing and accurate shooting from beyond the 3 point arc, (5/8,) helped them remain on terms for the opening 8 minutes and to stage a revival right after half-time. With Sinead Ennis making a sound debut, we only pulled away when we began to dribble less and pass more. (At one stage, I nearly introduced 4 more balls onto the court so that our girls could have 1 each!) A complacent start to the 2nd half resulted in UWIC pulling back to 46-39 before Mystics responded magnificently to a rallying call (and a few slaps!) to dominate the final 7 minutes and run out 64-42 winners for our second win of the weekend over 'foreign' opposition! Emma and Leah led all scorers but Lucy Rogan, Katie and Tracey also shone offensively (which was just as well since there are 2 lights out in the far corner of the sports hall!)
Our final game versus Worcester followed immediately. Both teams started so slowly that I thought they were going backwards! It meant that the score stood at 6-3 after fully 7 minutes. Everyone was shooting as accurately as a blind man with a bent rifle. Fortunately, things gradually improved as people started to wake up and the impressive Lucy sparked a run which put us 22-10 ahead by half-time. Worcester picked up after the break, partly because we had too many Kit-Kats, and a 6 point streak prevented the lead moving into the 20s. Only Leah managed double figures for us and our shooting percentage was a below par 30%, compared to the normal 50%, in the 42-26 final outcome. Even so, it was sufficient to give us 5 wins out of 5 in what was, for the most part, a most creditable display from the youngest team on show.
Sincere thanks to all who refereed, did the table and helped clear up afterwards. Special thanks to Aline for all of her assistance. It was greatly appreciated.
We face our sternest task yet next Saturday when Division 1 giants -they are all 7 feet tall! - Leeds Carnegie come to town. (How can a team with such a great name be based in Yorkshire?!) Tip off is at 1.00pm and support will be much appreciated
.
Jim 28/9/10
21 September 2010
Mystics Pre-Season
Our 2 stated objectives for this season are 'enjoyment' and 'improvement.' Judging by everyone's positive body language and inter-action, plus the manner in which they performed, we should witness both in abundance in the coming months. I was more than pleased (which, presumably made me ecstatic!) to welcome back to the club 3 of our past gems - Nikki' the diamond' Blakeway, Jamie 'the emerald' Curtis and Charlene 'the ruby' Ward to supplement the core of last year's team. (I'm not comparing Chelsea Tensel, Tracey Caton, Pauline Thivillier, Charlotte Hughes or Emma Macready to nearly eaten apples...) along with our outstanding players from the u16s, Mollie Campbell, Leah McDerment, Ashley Tensel and Lucy Rogan. Unfortunately, Jamie was unable to play as a result of a serious ankle injury sustained at training when she decided to land on someone's ankle rather than the floor.(Should have gone to Spec Savers!) This left us with just 2 high-class point guards (Chelsea and Leah) rather than the luxury of having 3.
In a moment of weakness, I had already appointed Nikki as our skipper - not due to her leadership qualities but because she is the only one who owns an arm band with 'capt' printed on it.(Unlike in the past, this won't change from one week to the next because someone else gives me a wine gum or tells me that they love my grey highlights or they also support Arsenal.)
We were all delighted to learn that Pauline had been allowed back into the country and are grateful that she remains fiercely loyal in the face of a tempting offer (a slice of Camembert and a bottle of Beaujolais) from a rival team. We are equally grateful that Charlene left a rival team to join us for a bar of chocolate and a bottle of Lucozade. Charlene is the missing piece in the jigsaw, which is meant to indicate that she gives us something we did not have rather than suggesting that we found her under the sofa whilst doing the hoovering!
Another bonus was Emma's decision to stay with us. All it took was a promise not to take the mickey out of her accent. I'm really glad she has decided to stay but I can't be sure that I won't rib her about the way she talks! Nikki, Pauline, Emma and Charlene, together with Chelsea, will provide excellent role models for our exciting (and, at times, excitable) younger players.Tracey and Charlotte are relatively experienced at this level and have been impressive in training, knowing that there is keen competition for places and court time. Leah and Mollie have exceptional talent and maturity for their age. Both have recently returned from representing England u16s in the Euros (that's a tournament not a currency!) and both have the ability and attitude to go far.(By that, I don't mean away to Newcastle, I mean that I rate them very highly as players and as people). Ashley and Lucy are small in stature but big in desire and potential. They are both like under-cooked meat - tough as old boots! They should benefit hugely from playing and training with the senior members of the squad.
Well, that was enough hot air to fill a large balloon so on to the games. We started brightly against Bristol as Emma registered our first 3 points. Scores from u16s Leah and Mollie and over 16s Nikki afforded us an early 9-0 lead. This soon became 17-2, due mainly to some stunning inside moves from Charlene, as well as excellent team defence. To their credit, Bristol did rally to bring it to 20-9 by the end of the opening quarter which saw all 10 Mystics share court time equitably.
Bristol's captain, C.Cox then found her shooting touch at the start orf the second period but we were able to retain a comfortable lead as Chelsea put on the burners. She was so fast that she overtook herself twice! Nikki and Charlene were causing problems inside with their strength and intelligent movement off the ball and Mollie caught the eye (and the ball!) by holding her own on the boards against bigger, older opponents but she did need more assistance in this regard. Half-time came with us 32-22 ahead but well aware that the game was far from over and we were being out-rebounded.
I asked the team to up their defensive energy and to box out more regularly after the break. They did so to such an extent that our opponents were restricted to a mere 8 points in the entire second half. Poor free throw shooting limited our tally in the third stanza but 3 more baskets from the irrepressible Charlene and 1 for Charlotte extended our lead. Charlene also provided the game's champagne moment when she leapt so high for a rebound that she almost hit her head on the ceiling and needed a parachute to come back down to earth!
Pauline and Emma stood out in the fourth quarter (Emma had a red nose!) with some delightful passing and unselfish play which helped us on to a 60-30 victory, during which there were many plus points. Our defensive focus and determination reduced talented opponents to jacking up no less than 20 three point attempts, of which only 3 were successful. They did so p[rincipally because they found it so difficult to penetrate off the pass or the dribble. Offensively, despite my unhelpful constant changes of personnel, we looked strong in all departments, with 10 genuine scoring threats, making us difficult to defend against. The 2 point guards could not be more different , which is a distinct advantage. Chelsea was brilliant. She is as quick and as direct as an Inter-City express train whereas Leah, although she is still not old enough to ride a moped, is composed and unrufflable. It was her senior debut but she played like a seasoned veteran.(This isn't to say that I sprinkled her with salt and pepper before the tip-off. It is meant to relate that she looked as at home on court as Delia Smith does in her kitchen.) Our capable 'shooting stars,' Pauline, Tracey, Charlotte and Emma had no need to light up. Nikki, Mollie and Charlene were so influential in the key that they, and the indefatiguable (I think it's a word!) Lucy, selflessly turned down numerous shooting opportunities to feed the post players.(Either that or they were just too lazy to shoot!)
All in all, this was a most satisfactory beginning, especially without the excellent Jamie. Unable to make a miraculous overnight recovery, Jamie was missing again when we took on an experienced Sefton team the next day. With the only change being Ashley Tensel coming in for Lucy, we got off to another flying start as Chelsea, Pauline, Leah, Emma, Nikki, Tracey and Mollie all scored in the first quarter which we won 18-3, thanks to some beautifully crafted team play. Even though Sefton had the luxury of a 6 feet 4 centre, Mollie, Charlene and Emma controlled the boards throughout and this enabled us to control the tempo of the game.
Chelsea and Ashley quickly converted in the second period so that, after 12 minutes, 9 Mystics had already converted. Sefton did find it easier to score whenever we went small and when our defensive help from the weakside was akin to London buses - too slow or non-existent. We turned round 40-16 up and, as with the Bristol game, raised our defensive intensity in the final 20 minutes. Pauline benefited from some pin-point assists in the third quarter from Leah before Chelsea, Ashley, Tracey, Charlotte and Emma showed that size doesn't matter as they ran riot in the fourth to leave us 71-28 winners.
Today's first champagne moment involved Charlotte's decision to take out 2 opponents and several chairs when she thought she was ona sledge and slid 10 feet along the floor to inspect Nikki's boots from close range. The second came when Emma showed her worth by acting as an interpreter after Sefton's coach mumbled some sort of profanity upon hearing that Leah is only 14!
Hopefully, these 2 encouraging displays will stand us in good stead for the 6 team tournament at the Amaechi Centre next Saturday and Sunday afternoons.
Jim 21/9/10 (Thanks to everyone for your support and help.)
4 September 2010
Leah McDerment |
Leah is our Stockport girl who has just entered Year 10 at Priestnall School. She has been around this Summer!
Firstly, a trip to Washington DC in July by invitation of Haringey Angels to play in the United States Junior National Tournament. As Leah eventually wants to look for a professional career in basketball, the trip was invaluable in looking at the American College system.
Then, she represented England Under 16 Girls in Macedonia from 10-23 August in the European B Championships. Despite Leah having 2 more years in this age group, she made a massive contribution to the team, playing more minutes than anyone else and was ranked 18th in minutes played of all players at the Tournament. She started all games except one and felt that her game improved significantly as the Tournament progressed. Leah's stats can be found on www.fibaeurope.com. The team also did extremely well, finishing 4th, which is better than any previous result in this age group.
Immediately on her return from Macedonia, she was jetting off to Istanbul, Turkey, to represent her country in a social and cultural trip (which also included some basketball) called 'Children of the World 2010'. Only 2 youngsters were chosen for the trip and she was accompanied by Myles Laurent Smart from Newham All Stars. They were chosen not only for their basketball ability but also their leadership skills and attitude. 400 youngsters and 200 coaches from 160 countries were involved, so it was a magnificent honour for Leah and for the Mystics for her to be invited.
Although Leah qualifies to play Under 16 for the Mystics, it is likely that she will spend much more time practising with and playing for the Under 18 and Senior Mystics teams.
24 August 2010
Mystics News |
22 March 2010
For Anthony Greenwood'sphotos of the Under 18 Women's game Doncaster, Click here.
4 May 2010
Under 16 Manchester Mystics 50 - 51* U16 Eastside Eagles (S Final) |
Under 16 Manchester Mystics 40 - 43 U16 Nottingham (3/4 Play-off) |
Sunday's Final Fours day was a real 'what if...' day for Mystics Under 16s. This was especially the case for 5 very influential players in the squad. What if Leah McDerment's training schedule in the run up to the event hadn't been severely hampered by illness, injury and a plethora of ill-timed school games? What if Mollie Campbell hadn't been harshly adjudged to have committed her third foul in a 2 minute spell in the 1st quarter of the opening game, when I had Katie Rowlands at the table to replace her as soon as she picked up her 2nd? What if Ashley Tensel hadn't injured her ankle so badly that she was unable to take part in the vital climax to the first gam,e and could not feature in the second one at all? What if another potential match-winner, Natalie Feurtado hadn't been stricken with a debilitating eye infection over night? What if Katie Rowlands hadn't got a whack in the eye which prevented her from playing in the second half of the second game?
19 April 2010
Under 16 Manchester Mystics 53 - 42 U16 Sevenoaks Suns
12 April 2010
Under 16 Manchester Mystics Friendly Preparation Game
28 March 2010
Under 16 Manchester Mystics 88 - 36 Under 16 Ipswich Bobcats
22 March 2010
Under 16 Manchester Mystics 109 - 29 Under 16 Everton Tigers
15 March 2010
Under 16 Manchester Mystics 111 - 29 Under 16 Bury Blue Devils
7 March 2010
Under 16 Manchester Mystics 49 - 38 Under 16 Everton Tigers
1 March 2010
Under 16 Manchester Mystics 49 - 38 Under 16 Cheshire Jets
Offense wins games. Defense wins championships. If so, we are well placed after our performance at Cheshire Jets on Sunday. Our offense against their organised zones was too stilted for the most part. It consisted mainly of 3 or 4 perimeter passes followed by a long-range shot as the clock ran down. (We certainly missed Molly Campbell's inside game today.) Sadly, the outcome was that 7 of our number only recorded 4 points in total between them. Fortunately for us, Leah McDerment shot the lights out. Our team defense, on the other hand, was nothing short of magnificent. Cheshire's highly regarded, talented guards, Megan Bowen and Mikaela Johnson were restricted to a combined final tally of just 1 point as a result of the close attention paid to them, in turn, by Lucy Rogan, Ashley Tensel, Natalie Feurtado, Mel Golaub, Danny Johnson , Cath Meakin and Leah.
22 February 2010
Under 16 Manchester Mystics 86 - 32 Under 16 Sefton Starlets
Under 16 Manchester Mystics 83 - 27 Under 16 Barrow Thorns
8 February 2010
Under 16 Manchester Mystics 65 - 71 Under 16 Haringey Angels
(National Cup Final)
18 January 2010
For Anthony Greenwood's photos of the Div 3 Women's game v Sheffield Hallam, and the Under 18 Women's Cup Semi-Final, Click here.
1 Febuary 2010
Under 16 Manchester Mystics 133 - 18 Under 16 Newcastle
25 January 2010
Under 16 Manchester Mystics 110 - 20 Under 16 Gateshead
19 January 2010
Under 16 Manchester Mystics 56 - 43 Under 16 Doncaster (Cup Semi-Final)
18 January 2010
Under 16 Manchester Mystics 74 - 40 Under 16 Stockport Lapwings
11 January 2010
Under 16 Manchester Mystics 88 - 23 Under 16 Bury Blue Devils
14 December 2009
Under 16 Manchester Mystics 73 - 27 Under 16 Cheshire Jets (Cup Quarter Final)
6 December 2009
Under 16 Manchester Mystics 62 - 37 Under 16 Cheshire Jets
Prior to tip-off, both Mystics and Cheshire Jets u16s were like raw eggs before being transformed into an omelette .... unbeaten. This top of the table clash was watched by a sizeable crowd, including a trio of our glamorous mums sporting newly-shorn, sophisticated short back and sides hair styles which were fully approved by the Jets coach, Nicky Clark. (The hair theme was doubly appropriate in that our team today mirrored Samson after he'd had his locks trimmed... under-strength.)
This had already put me on edge before the start and my fragile mood wasn't helped by 3 players doing a British Rail and turning up late. I remained a grumpy old man for much of the first half. Here's why. We struggled to break down their defense and repeatedly made the same mistakes to pick up cheap fouls. Even Einstein (Albert, not Frank) made mistakes but not the same ones ad infinitum. Furthermore, whereas we had earned our first 8 points in the opening 5 minutes via slick passing to get Cath Meakin, Lucy Rogan, Holly Rush and Molly Campbell, their 8 in reply were speculative, close your eyes and chuck it vaguely in the direction of the basket so that it thunders in with sufficient force to clean all the dust off the backboard. To darken my mood more, the remaining 5 minutes of the 1st quarter were all about free throws... missed free throws. We had no chance of winning a coconut at a fun fair, missing 6 of our 1st 7 attempts before the excellent Ashley Tensel hit 2 out of 2 to give us a slender 11-8 lead. Fortunately, Cheshire were as impressive as Elton John's wig from the line, with 0 from 4.
The scenario turned out to be similar in the 2nd stanza. We 'improved' from 3 out of 9 to 3 out of 8! They remained as cold as a broken radiator with1 from 6. I was still as happy as a vegetarian in a butcher's shop by the end of the half. The opening 20 minutes had been as exciting as listening to a jazz concert when you've got a headache but at least we were winning 24-19. Offensively, we had been akin to a 2nd hand Skoda bought from a shady car dealer.... unable to get going but, on the plus side, our defense had been terrific. We had restricted a team who were averaging a staggering 106 points per game to, potentially, a meagre 2x19. Ashley was controlling Mikaela Johnson, Lucy doing likewise to Megan Bowen and Cath, Natalie and Melissa Golaub in turn were totally snuffing out the major threat of C.Perry. (If the C stands for champagne, her nickname henceforth would be Babycham.)
We needed to be more relaxed offensively, as did I, if we were going to see off opponents who were putting up stubborn resistance. Bonfire night is long gone but Natalie proved to be the sparkler we required and helped us to dominate the next 6 minutes. She scored 8 of our next 12 points to give us what all people with halitosis should be given - breathing space, at 36-19. A couple of poor passes then gave the low-flying Jets some hope but a 41-27 lead going into the final quarter was fully deserved and our ball (rather than bowel) movement had improved. I was now smiling like a child in an unguarded chocolate factory!
Although all 11 players had already made an appearance, I had not been able to make as many substitutions as I usually do. I did gamble with the starting 5 for the last period. It proved to be inspired. (I only use the word because nobody else would!) Danny Johnson gave Ashley a well earned rest and Kayleigh Johnson (no relation) put in an almost faultless display at both ends of the court. They, along with Natalie, Molly and Lucy were responsible for the gap growing to 25 at 54-29 with just 2 minutes on the clock. The dying moments of the game mirrored the opening as both sides scored 8 points. Katie Rowlands, Danny Griffiths, Ashley and Cath scored ours. The majority of theirs came from the free throw line but the shots only went in because someone had removed the cling film from the top of the basket.
We had won 62-37 to inflict on Cheshire Jets their first defeat of the season. We had done so mainly thanks to excellent team defence which completely shut down their talented guards and restricted the high-scoring Claire Perry to a mere 2 points. The fact that our bench went far deeper than theirs meant that we were gradually able to wear them down so that we won the second half by as much as 20 points.
If we can bring similar commitment to bear, as well as taking heed of lessons learned, in the cup tie next Sunday, we can confidently look forward to a place in the semi-final.
Thought for the day: Are aerobics chocolate pens?
Jim 6/12/09
1 December 2009
Team Northumbria 40 – 93 Manchester Mystics
As our Under 16s had no game last week-end, I had the pleasure of taking what was left of the senior Women's team up to the frozen north-east, to within striking distance of Denmark, to play Northumbria. With the Under 18 contingent of the side all seemingly required to go to Nottingham to look for Robin Hood, as well as 2 late cry-offs, our 'squad' was as threadbare as my 35 year-old wedding suit. It consisted of 'Long John Silver,' the 1-legged Chelsea Tensel, 'Marie Antoinette,' our cake-loving Frenchie, Pauline Thivillier, 'Maid Marion,' our Nottingham exile and chocolate biscuit, Nicki Breakaway, 'Liverpool Lil,' our converted Scouser, Emma Macready, 'University Challenge,' our very own buzzer beater, Ashley Woodacre plus a couple of strays not selected for the Under 18s, Lucy 'the labrador' Rogan and Shahad 'the sheepdog' Ashrad.
The burning question prior to setting off, apart from what was I doing getting up at 6.45 on a Saturday morning, was could these 7 be as good as the cowboy film, ie. magnificent? Before finding out, we stopped at a Costa Coffee for a tea (how perverse is that!) and a smoothie. After I saw the bill I renamed it Costa Packet! We then did a spot of sight-seeing, courtesy of Aline's dodgy sat-nav. (I now know dozens of side-streets to hide down if ever I'm being chased by the Newcastle Constabulary.) We did ask a Geordie the way, but none of us could understand a word he said.
When we eventually arrived at the sports hall and tipped off, the first 5 started the game looking as fresh as a 6 month-old chicken sandwich. In keeping with this, Nicki picked up 2 early fouls (bad pun!) and we were like most husbands in that we were not having things all our own way, against very determined opponents. Northumbria had only lost by 10 to a tough Mansfield side in their last game and, as things stood after 6 or 7 minutes, like a jelly that's gone wrong, it wasn't set to be the walk-over that some thought it probably would be.
A plea to up our defensive intensity was called for, and heeded. Greater pressure on the ball brought an increased number of turnovers, and regular substitutions enabled us to maintain a high work-rate until we had established a comfortable lead by half-time. Once they had overcome their jet lag, the girls played with assurance, a smile on their faces and with freedom. Chelsea's and Pauline's passing consistently found the mark (even though he wasn't on court) to allow Nicki and Emma to display their artistry in the paint (!) Despite emulating a knackered marathon runner and falling further and further behind, Northumbria still had their moments. They shot well from medium range on the rare occasions they were granted time and space, and managed to out-rebound our largely diminutive team during the opening 20 minutes.
I politely requested that this be redressed after the interval and Lucy and Shahad certainly played their part in putting this into practice. Northumbria's coach opted to go to a 2-1-2 zone in the 2nd half. It proved to be an unwise move. Emma (25points) hit a trio of 3s in quick succession from the right corner (if she had missed them, it would have been the wrong corner!) and Ashley stole the show by swishing no less than six 3s (mainly following accurate skip passes from Lucy) in her tally of 26 points.
As Northumbria's zone spread to try to counter our outside shooting extravaganza, Nicki(24) and Pauline(14) - points not ages - found even more room inside which resulted in frequent visits to the free-throw line, most of which turned out to be like an orchard in September... fruitful.
As the huge crowd - 1 bloke of about 6 feet 8 - poured out of the sports hall, the scoreboard highlighted our 93-40 win. This suggests a totally one-sided affair. It wasn't. Our finishing was more clinical and we played smarter defense than our opponents. That apart, they played with great spirit throughout, matching us for effort, never giving up and making us work hard for the vast majority of the game. This made the 2-day journey, frostbite and visit to the country's worst service station at Barton on the way home - it was as welcoming as the motel in 'Psycho' - worthwhile.
Thanks to Aline and Nicki for all they did off court and to all the players for what they did on court. You actually were 'magnificent.'
Thought for the day: Is 'save the whale' this year's slogan for 'Weight Watchers' Anonymous?'
Jim Carnegie
25 November 2009
Manchester Mystics 44 - 40 Mansfield Giants
An action packed weekend for the Mystics! Still unbeaten!
This weekend was another busy weekend for the Mystics, once again seeing them have a double header.
On Saturday night, the Mystics hosted last year’s League Runners-up, Mansfield Giants, who came in with the game plan of aiming to upset, and slow down, the Mystics with their physicality. The home side started slowly, and the big zone from Mansfield caused a few problems early on, but the Mystics defence held firm and at the first interval they were leading by one point. Into the 2nd quarter, and a couple of violation calls against Manchester, once again disrupted their flow keeping things close, but slowly the Mystics increased their pressure and the pace of the game, and built a lead going up by as much as 12. Mansfield, to their credit, fought to stay within touching distance and the score at half time was 28-25 in favour of the Mystics.
More good defence from the Mystics held the Giants to only 5 points in the 3rd quarter, and enabled the lead to grow to 8 points, but then came the 4th quarter in which the home team could not buy a basket, and caused nervous times for the Mystics fans. The visitors worked very hard to stay in the game and get back on top, but fortunately the Mystics managed to hold on and keep the Giants at bay.
Top scorers
Mystics: Thivillier 10, Macready 7, Blakeway 7
Giants: Bailey 9, Richards 8, Bridge 8
Manchester Mystics 114 - 15 Ilkeston Outlaws
The next day, the Mystics blew their scoring slump out of the water! Facing Ilkeston Outlaws and playing with a young team, the Mystics came out fighting from the start, and quickly built a good lead, sharing the basketball and attacking the basket to great effect. This was a great opportunity for some of the younger Mystics to gain some experience, with Mollie Campbell making her mark early in the game. To their credit, the visiting team never gave up, and worked hard throughout, but as the game went on, the lead developed further, and the Manchester team’s class shone through. A great confidence builder for the top of the table team, who still remain undefeated this season.
Top scorers
Mystics: Macready 30, Campbell 25, Thivillier 19
Outlaws: Lebeter 4, Brudenell 4, Carter 4
24 November 2009
Under 14 Mystics at Lilleshall
Six Mystics Under 14s - Leah McDerment, Kelly Humphreys, Lucy Williams, Anna Williams, Aleiah Johnson and Gina Brierley did themselves, and our club, proud last weekend when they represented the North-West in the inter-regional tournament at Lilleshall. It was a first-time experience for 5 of the girls and Kelly and Gina are young enough to qualify for next year, but for Leah, it was a record-equalling fourth appearance. Only 1 other girl has participated in this tournament 4 times - Mystics very own Georgia Jones. The manner in which all of our girls conducted themselves, both on and off court, was exemplary. Leah led from the front and showed great maturity in the way that she continuously played in team-mates rather than looking to constantly dominate as she doubtlessly could have done. Kelly shot well and battled admirably when defending bigger, stronger opponents. The twins never stopped running and played very well on defense. Aleiah did a great job on the defensive boards, often against taller opposition. Gina played without fear, and her-on-the-ball defense was good throughout.
I expected Yorkshire and the East to be our toughest opponents in our pool games (rather than games of pool) on the Saturday. By chance, it was they who opened proceedings with the East doing what all good mountain climbers do, coming out on top. Both teams looked mobile and capable and we would need to be at our best to beat them. Our first opponents were the South-West who are traditionally like HGVs - big and cumbersome. They soon ran out of petrol and a 69-16 victory (which constitutes a big score in a 24 minute game) got us up and running. Yorkshire then came and went. Excellent team defense prevented the White Rose County from scoring any points in the 3rd and 4th quarters. We won at a canter 44-20 against a decent side, which was most encouraging.
Our third game in the space of 4 hours would be the pool decider. The East team was packed with players from Southend Swifts. In the event, they were not swift enough! We matched them up and down court to nullify their very effective fast break and wore them down to win comfortably 45-24.
Our final pool game was against the South-East, a team who seemed to be heavily reliant on their talented point guard, Natalie Busch. We treated them like dust and swept them away, thanks to some great team defense which gave the not-so-mighty Busch no room to operate, as the final score of 39-7 indicates.
4 wins out of 4 meant that we had qualified for the final on the Sunday morning. So had strong favourites, London. Their coach had been in no doubt about the outcome, even before a ball had been bounced. She coyly announced herself and her team to Aleiah's dad thus:
'We are London. We win this tournament every year.' (They don't, but were defending champions.)
London were, predictably very, very big and athletic. They had won each of their pool games by huge margins and had intimidated opponents. I knew that we would struggle to keep them off the boards but felt we had a genuine chance of causing an upset if we could out-hustle them and make them work for everything. The post-tournament words of the tournament organiser, Norman Waldron were well chosen: 'What a great final that was.'
Throughout the game, both sides found baskets hard to come by. London restricted us by ganging up on Leah, and by making it difficult for our shooters, due to many of them having the wing span of an ostrich! Fast break opportunities were also rare due to an expected lack of rebounds. We restricted them by sheer bloody-mindedness. The girls scrapped for everything and ran themselves into the ground (which made them even smaller!)
Consequently, neither side was able to establish a lead of any size. We had our noses in front for most of the game (mainly because mine is bigger than their coach's - big noses run in our family!) until we ran into foul trouble with 2 minutes remaining. (16 fouls in 22 minutes play to their 4!) We had also started to lose some momentum because I had made a conscious decision to use all 11 fit players in the second half. We were now down 24-26, and I opted to go small(er) and quick in a bid to put more pressure on the ball. The girls’ determination enabled us to go 30-28 up going into the last minute. London's talented point guard, Brenda KIpewu then went on a solo mission to bring it level, and I gambled on her trying to do so again. We adjusted our defense and Brenda's next 2 missions were halted by some great team defense. Meanwhile, Lucy scored her first points of the game from the short corner to see us home 32-30! It was as easy as that!
A truly wonderful achievement, girls. We are very proud of you. Thanks to parents for your absolutely brilliant support. You were by far the most rowdy group on show!
Jim 24/11/09
16 November 2009
Young Mystics North West of England Representation
This weekend 21st/22nd November sees a number of Mystics girls representing the North West of England at the Inter Regional Tournament at Lilleshall National Sports Centre in Shropshire.
Leah McDerment (making her fourth and final appearance at this competition) will Captain the North West team, along with Anna and Lucy Williams, Aleiah Johnson, Kelly Humphreys and Gina Brierley. All the girls are part of the current Under 14s team.
The girls have been training hard under the guidance of North West coach, Jim Carnegie, and are looking forward to an exciting weekend of top level basketball.
Congratulations to all the girls on your selection and good luck in the tournament.
15 November 2009
Under 16 Mystics 91 - 36 Under 16 Sefton Stars
12 November 2009
Mystics Under 16s 90 - 30 Stockport Under 16 Girls
10 November 2009
Mystics Under 16s 62 - 22 Barrow Under 16 Girls
4 November 2009
A Successful Double Header sees the Mystics rise to the top!
Sefton Stars 46 – 58 Manchester Mystics
After two wins in the league this weekend, the Mystics have moved to the top of EBL Women’s Division 2 North.
On Saturday, the Mystics played Ilkeston, and the younger Mystics shone through, playing tough in all 4 quarters. They were able to mix defences and never looked liked losing the game, with the final score 109 – 44. Mystics once again had new names on the top scorers list - this time Ashley Woodacre top scored with 20 points, another great sign for the future with the young girls having an impact.
The next day, the trip to Sefton proved to be somewhat tougher. Again, the Mystics had one or two key injuries, and one or two coming back from injury, but all credit goes to Sefton and their coach who came out fighting, and made the game very difficult for the Mystics. Sefton played aggressive man-to-man defense, and did a good job attacking the offensive boards, their player, Cass, especially grabbing rebounds and scoring, in and around the basket.
After a slow start, the Mystics had to lift their intensity and do a better job of being more aggressive on offense, and getting higher percentage shots. Improved defense slowed down Sefton’s scoring, and got the Mystics going, and scores were close all the way in to the 4th quarter. The pressure defense of the Mystics told in the final stanza, sparking the offense, and saw the Mystics score 20 points, to make the final score Sefton Stars 46 – 58 Manchester Mystics.
The Mystics now look ahead to an action-packed weekend - playing Preston on Saturday at 7:30pm, followed by a big game on Sunday in the National Cup against local rivals, Stockport, for a place in the last 8! Tip-off on Sunday is 7pm at the Amaechi Basketball Centre, and it’s sure to be a great game!
3 November 2009
Under 16 Manchester Mystics 116 - 29 Newcastle
Despite taking a very young team up to the wild north-east (only 3 of the side are ineligible next season), courtesy of 'All scousers know a man with a van,' our day out proved to be both profitable and enjoyable. Travelling together undoubtedly has a positive effect on team bonding and this was very evident on and off court today. Newcastle started the day above us in the Northern Conference league table by virtue of having played 1 game more. This is no longer the case!
With the versatile Cath Meakin deservedly finding her way into the starting 5, we, literally, sprinted into a 16-0 lead after only 5 minutes. Apart from the speed, accuracy and range of passing, what was most gratifying about such an electrifying opening was that Lucy Rogan, Leah McDerment, Molly Campbell and Holly Rush had already all helped themselves to 4 points apiece. When a team spreads the scoring, it makes it difficult for the opposition and enhances team spirit.
The introduction of the vastly improving Katie Rowlands and the fearless Danny Griffiths brought more of the same, as they, too, popped in 2 baskets each within 3 minutes of coming on. I had asked the girls to try to beat their man up and down court on every possession. Being an extremely obedient group, they did so admirably and this led to a succession of fast break opportunities for everyone. This was due, in part to their willingness to run hard and to the defensive rebounding of Molly, Holly, Polly and Dolly. (For the last 2 read Katie and Kat Benson.) Only Lolly didn't pull her weight. Even so, this tactic would not have been anything like as productive as it was were we not blessed with having a truly outstanding long-range passer in our midst. Some of Leah's passes left even the 3 Nolan Sisters -Jill, Jane and Angie- speechless! (Not an easy task!)
The 1st quarter ended with the Mystics up 32-8, in spite of some strange interpretations of the rules from a not-so-diminutive referee and his grandad. We then ran in a further unanswered 30 points without the hint of a press. This included scores from Kayleigh Johnson and Cath Meakin. Newcastle, to their credit, did cash in on several defensive lapses we had in the closing moments of the second stanza, brought about by either paralysis or ball watching, to bring it to 66-16 at half-time.
As we had emphatically demonstrated our ability to run a devastating fast break, I was keen for the girls to get something else out of the 2nd half. I suggested slowing it down and capitalising on our size advantage by running some high-low post moves. Leah did her best to orchestrate this but open players under opponents' baskets aren't easy to ignore.
The fact that everybody again saw plenty of the ball after the interval meant that the points were shared so that no less than 6 of our 9 team members hit double figures. From a final score of 116-29, Molly led the way with 22, closely followed by Katie's 20, Leah's 19, Lucy's 17, with Holly, who looked really sharp today on 16 and Kat on 10. Danny, Cath and Kayleigh left the bulk of the scoring to those 6 on this occasion but all contributed positively in other ways, particularly to the singing on the way home!
26 October 2009
Manchester Mystics 99 – 26 Preston Pride
The Mystics continued their good start to the season with a convincing victory over newcomers Preston Pride. Once again facing a team that played Zone all game, the Mystics were aggressive from the outset, moved the ball well and attacked the basket. The tight defence that has been a hallmark of the Mystics was evident, holding the visitors to just 4 points in the first quarter.
Rotating the bench and getting everyone involved, the Mystics continued to play up-tempo team basketball. The quality of the home team remained, even with different line-ups and a variety of defences, the halftime score being 55-14.
In the 2nd half, the Manchester team took the opportunity to give their younger players some experience. The Preston team kept battling throughout the game with jump shots from Whitehead and Whitrylak and an increased defensive effort.
The Mystics pushed on, looking for 100 points but in the final seconds, Blakeway missed a well-worked 3-point attempt in the corner, but the rebound was scored, making the final score 99-26. Blakeway led all scorers with 20 points, Thivillier scored 14 for the 3rd game running, and youngsters Amy Bowen and Charlotte Hughes each had 11 points.
Coach Chris Straker said “I am very happy with the way the girls are developing at the moment, and our scores are a credit to the hard work that the girls have put in training through pre-season. It speaks highly of the girls that we had 4 girls missing through injury, but are still maintaining our quality, so that girls returning from injury will have to fight for their places in the team”.
25 October 2009
Manchester Mystics U16 110 - 20 Gateshead Storm U16
The Mystics U16s continued their impressive start to the season with a clinical display at home to Gateshead. Despite being over-run from the first minute to the last, the visitors deserve credit for their exemplary attitude and endeavour. Their heads never dropped and they showed some nice touches but were unable to match Mystics physically or technically.
It did not matter which 5 of the 12 players on show today were on court, the scenario was very similar- excellent team defense, up-tempo offense and great passing. Passing is very much a neglected art but these girls can zip the ball about almost telepathically. The point-guard spot was shared between Leah McDerment, Ashley Tensel and Danielle Johnson. Each one stamped their mark on the game in their own way.
Leah is a nightmare for any defense. She is so versatile. She again showed that she can go left or right, hit the 3, see the early pass, post up or penetrate and dish. Ashley poses different problems with her pace and tremendous strength. Like Leah, her passing today was of the highest order. I lost count of the number of assists these two made in the game.(I'm easily confused!) Danielle is unable to intimidate opponents physically and so her contribution tends to be more understated. She distributed the ball well and rarely turned it over. She should be pleased with her performance.
Having such talented, unselfish guards meant that the ball, and the points, were shared. This is great for team spirit and not so great for the opposition, especially when the ball goes inside to the ever-improving twin towers, Molly Campbell and Katie Rowlands.This formidable duo totally dominated the boards and give us a presence in the paint which could prove crucial as the season progresses.
A mammoth 31 points were registered in the opening 10 minutes and the next 10 saw little change. Mystics continued to move the ball quickly and accurately. The combination of ball and player movement proved too much for a young- looking, diminuative Gateshead side. The endless flow of pin-point passes from Leah and Ashley led to a plethora of fast break opportunities from the highly impressive quartet of willing runners in Lucy Rogan, Holly Rush, Melissa Golaub and Natalie Feurtado. At times, I thought the land speed record was in danger of being broken as they flashed up court! Herein, Lucy and Holly also showed their versatility because, with the game being played at such a fast pace, their outside shooting prowess was not called upon.
Turning round at 59-14 prompted even more frequent changes of personnel in the third quarter. This inevitably interupted our rhythm somewhat but we still managed to add 20 points to our tally with Cath Meakin, Danny Griffiths and Kat Benson showing everyone just how much they have improved since last season. Cath is now more confident and is developing a reliable medium-range jump shot as well as an explosive drive with either hand. Danny is a coach's dream. She makes little of her lack of size to be a genuine inside threat due to her tenacity and fearlessness. She passes the ball early and with power and has a nose for the rebound. Kat impessed me today. She was prominent both inside and out, hitting well from the short corner and getting several put-backs due to some smart mirror-image rebounding. These are both principles we work on in training which shows she listens and learns.
The fourth quarter was nothing short of an exhibition. The girls shared the basketball with great maturity, remained focused and did not let up defensively. For me, the two most pleasing aspects of the 116-20 victory were, firstly, that everyone played with smiles on their faces throughout. The team spirit was first-class. Secondly, no less than 6 of the team-Leah, Ashley, Cath, Molly,Kat and Lucy managed double figures, with a seventh,Natalie just 1short.
I now am convinced that we have at least 14 players of quality in our squad. Regretfully, I can't play everyone in every game but please remain patient and grab the opportunity when your chance comes. If our team work and team spirit remain as they are (and we train hard!), the sky is the limit.
21 October 2009
Manchester Mystics 80 - 61 Sheffield Hallam Hatters
The Manchester Mystics kicked off their league season with a tough away victory at All Saints Sports Centre in Sheffield.
Uncharacteristically, the Sheffield team played zone defence all game which slowed down the Mystics early in the game, and made life difficult for the Manchester team, making the score 18-14 at the end of the 1st quarter. Slowly but surely the visitors found their way in to the game, gradually becoming more aggressive against the zone. However, missed shots meant that Manchester still trailed by 4 at half time.
First time starter, Tracey Caton, grew in confidence with every second on the court, using a variety of moves to attack the basket and create jump shots, and the Mystics took the lead in the 3rd quarter, leading by 6 going in to the final stanza. The Mystics’ defensive pressure and variety of defences was beginning to show on the home team, and more turnovers by Sheffield led to easy baskets for Manchester, who now began to build on their lead. Showing their strength and fitness, the Mystics pulled away as the 4th quarter drew on, the final score being Sheffield Hallam Hatters 61 – 80 Manchester Mystics.
Top Scorers
Sheffield: Campbell 15, Gangstad 15, Kirk 11
Manchester: Caton 22, Blakeway 17, Thivillier 11
18 October 2009
Under 16 Mystics first League Game of the Season
Stockport 45 - 80 Manchester Mystics
After a thoroughly successful pre-season comprising of 7 wins in 7 games against the likes of Sheffield, Killester, St.Mirren and Southend, the season proper began with a tricky away fixture at Stockport. With the majority of the home side being made up of girls from the talented Priestnall school team, Stockport were expected to be well organised, used to playing with each other and a tough nut to crack. Fortunately, we had plenty of nut crackers on hand.
The opposition opted to come out in a 212 zone and possess sufficient size, strength and pace to make things awkward for any team at this level. They scored the first 4 points as our girls took their time to get accustomed to the challenge. A few misplaced passes, hurried shots from too far out and an inability to prevent the Stockport guards leaking out on the break prompted an alteration to a full-court press. This immediately served its purpose by scattering the zone and upping our defensive intensity, leading to numerous turn overs by our flustered opponents.
We were now well in control with our quickest unit on the floor but then an injury to Ashley Tensel, one of our main scorers and leading stealers, forced us into a change. We went big with Molly Campbell and Katie Rowlands in tandem. This saw us call off the press but we could now be much more of an inside threat which would be no bad thing as only the hugely influential Leah McDerment was able to hit consistently from outside so far. The move worked well and we bagged 24 points in the opening 10 minutes despite not being at our fluent best.
A12 point swing had established an 8 point lead and with Ashley still troubled by her swollen finger, I decided to stay with the policy of trying to go inside and also to give everyone some court time. Without having to deal with the press, Stockport took the opportunity of slowing the game down and the 2nd quarter was a low scoring affair. We shaded the period 10-6, with Leah notching 6 of our 10.
Turning round at 34-22, I set the girls a target of trying to win the game by 30. This would not be easy against determined opponents who matched us physically in every way. Regular switches from pressing to going big caused continued problems for Stockport. We were now creating numerous scoring opportunities in the key. Not enough of them were converted but this can be put right at training. Even so, with Lucy Rogan, Cath Meakin, Holly Rush and Danny Griffiths (inspite of her long journey!) working tirelessly, we again managed a most creditable 24 points in the quarter to extend our lead at 58-34.
We were now far less tense and were passing the ball quickly and accurately. The fourth period proved to be very one-sided in terms of possession and chances created. Plenty were again missed, due mainly to poor use of the backboard, but we still ran in another 22 points with Katie, Lucy, Ashley, Leah, Molly, Holly and Kat Benson all contributing baskets in the quarter to finish at 80-45.
Top teams need players who are adaptable and smart. Prevented from playing our normal free-flowing up-tempo basketball by a good Stockport side, the girls found other ways of being effective. Leah led from the front. She decided to out-shoot the zone. By swishing 4 three pointers and collecting 29 points, her decision proved to be a sound one, in keeping with most things she does.
Ashley overcame the inconvenience of her injury to wade in with 12 points and she and Lucy made countless steals and deflections which led to easy scores for team-mates.
Molly and Katie pulled endless rebounds and hit 25 points between them. This pair will reek havoc once they learn to sight the target and bank the ball more consistently.
Holly and Kayleigh Johnson did not get as many open looks as they are used to but they contributed positively in other ways, with Holly being perfect from the free-throw line. Both worked very hard defensively and moved their feet well.
Cath's defensive display was as full of endeavour as it always is and she looked lively on offense. As did Danny. She put herself about in her usual fearless manner and fitted in well.
Kat did not see much of the ball but looked a threat from the short corner and showed that she is an ever-improving defender. As a consequence, it would be true to say that all 10 players were instrumental in our winning start. With a number of talented players unable to get a game this time, we have genuine strength in depth and competition for places should help to maintain a high standard of performance throughout the season.
Jim. 18/10/09
14 October 2009
Mystics Shock Division 1 Northumbria in the 1st Round!
Team Northumbria 59 - 84 Manchester Mystics
Saturday saw the Manchester Mystics cause the biggest shock of the weekend, beating Division 1 Northumbria by 25pts at the Coach Lane Sports Centre in Newcastle.
The Mystics came out with tough defense and good offensive play from the break, rotating players in and out of the game early, and leading by as much as 9 in the 2nd quarter. Good shooting from Northumbria’s guards meant that the away team’s lead was just 3 at half-time.
The early stages of the 3rd were closely contested, but the Mystics never gave up their lead, and as the quarter drew on, the Mystics began to increase their lead again with good scoring inside, eventually leading by 9 at the end of the quarter.
In the final quarter, full-court intensity from the Mystics piled the pressure on the tiring Northumbria team, and the outside shots rained in from the Mystics who scored 30 points and finished the game with a 25 point lead.
This is a great start to the season for the young Mystics, who will now go on to face Stockport Lapwings at the Amaechi Basketball Centre in the next round.
8 July 2009
North West Winners
Our Mystics girls had a great weekend at Jesse Boot in the Inter-Regional Under 17 Competition. The North West were worthy winners with a win over Yorkshire in the Final by 71 - 59. The Mystics who took part were:
| Maeve Higham (Captain) |
| Nicolette Fonglyewquee |
| Tracey Caton |
| Holly Rush |
| Mollie Campbell |
| Charlotte Hughes |
| Ashley Woodacre |
Ably coached by Chris Straker (Manchester) and Nick Ibberson (Bury), the team represented the North West area extremely well, both on and off the floor.
2 July 2009
Inter-Regional Girls
The Inter-Regional Competition involves 10 areas, covering the whole of the country and for the Girls, it is to be held on 4/5 July at Jesse Boot Arena in Nottingham. The age-group for the competition is Under 17 and our Club will be well represented for the North West Region.
Congratulations to the following girls on their selection:
| Maeve Higham |
| Nicolette Fonglyewquee |
| Tracey Caton |
| Holly Rush |
| Mollie Campbell |
| Charlotte Hughes |
| Ashley Woodacre |
22 June 2009
The Mystics will play in Division 2 next season, due to many of the Senior girls moving on to other situations. Kelsey Bardsley and Charlotte Stoddart move to the States on scholarships and Kristie Sheils moves to Leeds Carnegie to continue her education and join the Basketball Academy in Leeds. We wish her well.
Emma Macready and Nicky Blakeway return next year and will be the mainstays of a very young team which will gain great experience at Division 2 level.
Mystics News for 2009-10
22 March 2010
For Anthony Greenwood'sphotos of the Under 18 Women's game Doncaster, Click here.
19 April 2010
Under 16 Manchester Mystics 53 - 42 U16 Sevenoaks Suns
12 April 2010
Under 16 Manchester Mystics Friendly Preparation Game
28 March 2010
Under 16 Manchester Mystics 88 - 36 Under 16 Ipswich Bobcats
22 March 2010
Under 16 Manchester Mystics 109 - 29 Under 16 Everton Tigers
15 March 2010
Under 16 Manchester Mystics 111 - 29 Under 16 Bury Blue Devils
7 March 2010
Under 16 Manchester Mystics 49 - 38 Under 16 Everton Tigers
1 March 2010
Under 16 Manchester Mystics 49 - 38 Under 16 Cheshire Jets
Offense wins games. Defense wins championships. If so, we are well placed after our performance at Cheshire Jets on Sunday. Our offense against their organised zones was too stilted for the most part. It consisted mainly of 3 or 4 perimeter passes followed by a long-range shot as the clock ran down. (We certainly missed Molly Campbell's inside game today.) Sadly, the outcome was that 7 of our number only recorded 4 points in total between them. Fortunately for us, Leah McDerment shot the lights out. Our team defense, on the other hand, was nothing short of magnificent. Cheshire's highly regarded, talented guards, Megan Bowen and Mikaela Johnson were restricted to a combined final tally of just 1 point as a result of the close attention paid to them, in turn, by Lucy Rogan, Ashley Tensel, Natalie Feurtado, Mel Golaub, Danny Johnson , Cath Meakin and Leah.
22 February 2010
Under 16 Manchester Mystics 86 - 32 Under 16 Sefton Starlets
Under 16 Manchester Mystics 83 - 27 Under 16 Barrow Thorns
8 February 2010
Under 16 Manchester Mystics 65 - 71 Under 16 Haringey Angels
(National Cup Final)
18 January 2010
For Anthony Greenwood's photos of the Div 3 Women's game v Sheffield Hallam, and the Under 18 Women's Cup Semi-Final, Click here.
1 Febuary 2010
Under 16 Manchester Mystics 133 - 18 Under 16 Newcastle
25 January 2010
Under 16 Manchester Mystics 110 - 20 Under 16 Gateshead
19 January 2010
Under 16 Manchester Mystics 56 - 43 Under 16 Doncaster (Cup Semi-Final)
18 January 2010
Under 16 Manchester Mystics 74 - 40 Under 16 Stockport Lapwings
11 January 2010
Under 16 Manchester Mystics 88 - 23 Under 16 Bury Blue Devils
14 December 2009
Under 16 Manchester Mystics 73 - 27 Under 16 Cheshire Jets (Cup Quarter Final)
6 December 2009
Under 16 Manchester Mystics 62 - 37 Under 16 Cheshire Jets
Prior to tip-off, both Mystics and Cheshire Jets u16s were like raw eggs before being transformed into an omelette .... unbeaten. This top of the table clash was watched by a sizeable crowd, including a trio of our glamorous mums sporting newly-shorn, sophisticated short back and sides hair styles which were fully approved by the Jets coach, Nicky Clark. (The hair theme was doubly appropriate in that our team today mirrored Samson after he'd had his locks trimmed... under-strength.)
This had already put me on edge before the start and my fragile mood wasn't helped by 3 players doing a British Rail and turning up late. I remained a grumpy old man for much of the first half. Here's why. We struggled to break down their defense and repeatedly made the same mistakes to pick up cheap fouls. Even Einstein (Albert, not Frank) made mistakes but not the same ones ad infinitum. Furthermore, whereas we had earned our first 8 points in the opening 5 minutes via slick passing to get Cath Meakin, Lucy Rogan, Holly Rush and Molly Campbell, their 8 in reply were speculative, close your eyes and chuck it vaguely in the direction of the basket so that it thunders in with sufficient force to clean all the dust off the backboard. To darken my mood more, the remaining 5 minutes of the 1st quarter were all about free throws... missed free throws. We had no chance of winning a coconut at a fun fair, missing 6 of our 1st 7 attempts before the excellent Ashley Tensel hit 2 out of 2 to give us a slender 11-8 lead. Fortunately, Cheshire were as impressive as Elton John's wig from the line, with 0 from 4.
The scenario turned out to be similar in the 2nd stanza. We 'improved' from 3 out of 9 to 3 out of 8! They remained as cold as a broken radiator with1 from 6. I was still as happy as a vegetarian in a butcher's shop by the end of the half. The opening 20 minutes had been as exciting as listening to a jazz concert when you've got a headache but at least we were winning 24-19. Offensively, we had been akin to a 2nd hand Skoda bought from a shady car dealer.... unable to get going but, on the plus side, our defense had been terrific. We had restricted a team who were averaging a staggering 106 points per game to, potentially, a meagre 2x19. Ashley was controlling Mikaela Johnson, Lucy doing likewise to Megan Bowen and Cath, Natalie and Melissa Golaub in turn were totally snuffing out the major threat of C.Perry. (If the C stands for champagne, her nickname henceforth would be Babycham.)
We needed to be more relaxed offensively, as did I, if we were going to see off opponents who were putting up stubborn resistance. Bonfire night is long gone but Natalie proved to be the sparkler we required and helped us to dominate the next 6 minutes. She scored 8 of our next 12 points to give us what all people with halitosis should be given - breathing space, at 36-19. A couple of poor passes then gave the low-flying Jets some hope but a 41-27 lead going into the final quarter was fully deserved and our ball (rather than bowel) movement had improved. I was now smiling like a child in an unguarded chocolate factory!
Although all 11 players had already made an appearance, I had not been able to make as many substitutions as I usually do. I did gamble with the starting 5 for the last period. It proved to be inspired. (I only use the word because nobody else would!) Danny Johnson gave Ashley a well earned rest and Kayleigh Johnson (no relation) put in an almost faultless display at both ends of the court. They, along with Natalie, Molly and Lucy were responsible for the gap growing to 25 at 54-29 with just 2 minutes on the clock. The dying moments of the game mirrored the opening as both sides scored 8 points. Katie Rowlands, Danny Griffiths, Ashley and Cath scored ours. The majority of theirs came from the free throw line but the shots only went in because someone had removed the cling film from the top of the basket.
We had won 62-37 to inflict on Cheshire Jets their first defeat of the season. We had done so mainly thanks to excellent team defence which completely shut down their talented guards and restricted the high-scoring Claire Perry to a mere 2 points. The fact that our bench went far deeper than theirs meant that we were gradually able to wear them down so that we won the second half by as much as 20 points.
If we can bring similar commitment to bear, as well as taking heed of lessons learned, in the cup tie next Sunday, we can confidently look forward to a place in the semi-final.
Thought for the day: Are aerobics chocolate pens?
Jim 6/12/09
1 December 2009
Team Northumbria 40 – 93 Manchester Mystics
As our Under 16s had no game last week-end, I had the pleasure of taking what was left of the senior Women's team up to the frozen north-east, to within striking distance of Denmark, to play Northumbria. With the Under 18 contingent of the side all seemingly required to go to Nottingham to look for Robin Hood, as well as 2 late cry-offs, our 'squad' was as threadbare as my 35 year-old wedding suit. It consisted of 'Long John Silver,' the 1-legged Chelsea Tensel, 'Marie Antoinette,' our cake-loving Frenchie, Pauline Thivillier, 'Maid Marion,' our Nottingham exile and chocolate biscuit, Nicki Breakaway, 'Liverpool Lil,' our converted Scouser, Emma Macready, 'University Challenge,' our very own buzzer beater, Ashley Woodacre plus a couple of strays not selected for the Under 18s, Lucy 'the labrador' Rogan and Shahad 'the sheepdog' Ashrad.
The burning question prior to setting off, apart from what was I doing getting up at 6.45 on a Saturday morning, was could these 7 be as good as the cowboy film, ie. magnificent? Before finding out, we stopped at a Costa Coffee for a tea (how perverse is that!) and a smoothie. After I saw the bill I renamed it Costa Packet! We then did a spot of sight-seeing, courtesy of Aline's dodgy sat-nav. (I now know dozens of side-streets to hide down if ever I'm being chased by the Newcastle Constabulary.) We did ask a Geordie the way, but none of us could understand a word he said.
When we eventually arrived at the sports hall and tipped off, the first 5 started the game looking as fresh as a 6 month-old chicken sandwich. In keeping with this, Nicki picked up 2 early fouls (bad pun!) and we were like most husbands in that we were not having things all our own way, against very determined opponents. Northumbria had only lost by 10 to a tough Mansfield side in their last game and, as things stood after 6 or 7 minutes, like a jelly that's gone wrong, it wasn't set to be the walk-over that some thought it probably would be.
A plea to up our defensive intensity was called for, and heeded. Greater pressure on the ball brought an increased number of turnovers, and regular substitutions enabled us to maintain a high work-rate until we had established a comfortable lead by half-time. Once they had overcome their jet lag, the girls played with assurance, a smile on their faces and with freedom. Chelsea's and Pauline's passing consistently found the mark (even though he wasn't on court) to allow Nicki and Emma to display their artistry in the paint (!) Despite emulating a knackered marathon runner and falling further and further behind, Northumbria still had their moments. They shot well from medium range on the rare occasions they were granted time and space, and managed to out-rebound our largely diminutive team during the opening 20 minutes.
I politely requested that this be redressed after the interval and Lucy and Shahad certainly played their part in putting this into practice. Northumbria's coach opted to go to a 2-1-2 zone in the 2nd half. It proved to be an unwise move. Emma (25points) hit a trio of 3s in quick succession from the right corner (if she had missed them, it would have been the wrong corner!) and Ashley stole the show by swishing no less than six 3s (mainly following accurate skip passes from Lucy) in her tally of 26 points.
As Northumbria's zone spread to try to counter our outside shooting extravaganza, Nicki(24) and Pauline(14) - points not ages - found even more room inside which resulted in frequent visits to the free-throw line, most of which turned out to be like an orchard in September... fruitful.
As the huge crowd - 1 bloke of about 6 feet 8 - poured out of the sports hall, the scoreboard highlighted our 93-40 win. This suggests a totally one-sided affair. It wasn't. Our finishing was more clinical and we played smarter defense than our opponents. That apart, they played with great spirit throughout, matching us for effort, never giving up and making us work hard for the vast majority of the game. This made the 2-day journey, frostbite and visit to the country's worst service station at Barton on the way home - it was as welcoming as the motel in 'Psycho' - worthwhile.
Thanks to Aline and Nicki for all they did off court and to all the players for what they did on court. You actually were 'magnificent.'
Thought for the day: Is 'save the whale' this year's slogan for 'Weight Watchers' Anonymous?'
Jim Carnegie
25 November 2009
Manchester Mystics 44 - 40 Mansfield Giants
An action packed weekend for the Mystics! Still unbeaten!
This weekend was another busy weekend for the Mystics, once again seeing them have a double header.
On Saturday night, the Mystics hosted last year’s League Runners-up, Mansfield Giants, who came in with the game plan of aiming to upset, and slow down, the Mystics with their physicality. The home side started slowly, and the big zone from Mansfield caused a few problems early on, but the Mystics defence held firm and at the first interval they were leading by one point. Into the 2nd quarter, and a couple of violation calls against Manchester, once again disrupted their flow keeping things close, but slowly the Mystics increased their pressure and the pace of the game, and built a lead going up by as much as 12. Mansfield, to their credit, fought to stay within touching distance and the score at half time was 28-25 in favour of the Mystics.
More good defence from the Mystics held the Giants to only 5 points in the 3rd quarter, and enabled the lead to grow to 8 points, but then came the 4th quarter in which the home team could not buy a basket, and caused nervous times for the Mystics fans. The visitors worked very hard to stay in the game and get back on top, but fortunately the Mystics managed to hold on and keep the Giants at bay.
Top scorers
Mystics: Thivillier 10, Macready 7, Blakeway 7
Giants: Bailey 9, Richards 8, Bridge 8
Manchester Mystics 114 - 15 Ilkeston Outlaws
The next day, the Mystics blew their scoring slump out of the water! Facing Ilkeston Outlaws and playing with a young team, the Mystics came out fighting from the start, and quickly built a good lead, sharing the basketball and attacking the basket to great effect. This was a great opportunity for some of the younger Mystics to gain some experience, with Mollie Campbell making her mark early in the game. To their credit, the visiting team never gave up, and worked hard throughout, but as the game went on, the lead developed further, and the Manchester team’s class shone through. A great confidence builder for the top of the table team, who still remain undefeated this season.
Top scorers
Mystics: Macready 30, Campbell 25, Thivillier 19
Outlaws: Lebeter 4, Brudenell 4, Carter 4
24 November 2009
Under 14 Mystics at Lilleshall
Six Mystics Under 14s - Leah McDerment, Kelly Humphreys, Lucy Williams, Anna Williams, Aleiah Johnson and Gina Brierley did themselves, and our club, proud last weekend when they represented the North-West in the inter-regional tournament at Lilleshall. It was a first-time experience for 5 of the girls and Kelly and Gina are young enough to qualify for next year, but for Leah, it was a record-equalling fourth appearance. Only 1 other girl has participated in this tournament 4 times - Mystics very own Georgia Jones. The manner in which all of our girls conducted themselves, both on and off court, was exemplary. Leah led from the front and showed great maturity in the way that she continuously played in team-mates rather than looking to constantly dominate as she doubtlessly could have done. Kelly shot well and battled admirably when defending bigger, stronger opponents. The twins never stopped running and played very well on defense. Aleiah did a great job on the defensive boards, often against taller opposition. Gina played without fear, and her-on-the-ball defense was good throughout.
I expected Yorkshire and the East to be our toughest opponents in our pool games (rather than games of pool) on the Saturday. By chance, it was they who opened proceedings with the East doing what all good mountain climbers do, coming out on top. Both teams looked mobile and capable and we would need to be at our best to beat them. Our first opponents were the South-West who are traditionally like HGVs - big and cumbersome. They soon ran out of petrol and a 69-16 victory (which constitutes a big score in a 24 minute game) got us up and running. Yorkshire then came and went. Excellent team defense prevented the White Rose County from scoring any points in the 3rd and 4th quarters. We won at a canter 44-20 against a decent side, which was most encouraging.
Our third game in the space of 4 hours would be the pool decider. The East team was packed with players from Southend Swifts. In the event, they were not swift enough! We matched them up and down court to nullify their very effective fast break and wore them down to win comfortably 45-24.
Our final pool game was against the South-East, a team who seemed to be heavily reliant on their talented point guard, Natalie Busch. We treated them like dust and swept them away, thanks to some great team defense which gave the not-so-mighty Busch no room to operate, as the final score of 39-7 indicates.
4 wins out of 4 meant that we had qualified for the final on the Sunday morning. So had strong favourites, London. Their coach had been in no doubt about the outcome, even before a ball had been bounced. She coyly announced herself and her team to Aleiah's dad thus:
'We are London. We win this tournament every year.' (They don't, but were defending champions.)
London were, predictably very, very big and athletic. They had won each of their pool games by huge margins and had intimidated opponents. I knew that we would struggle to keep them off the boards but felt we had a genuine chance of causing an upset if we could out-hustle them and make them work for everything. The post-tournament words of the tournament organiser, Norman Waldron were well chosen: 'What a great final that was.'
Throughout the game, both sides found baskets hard to come by. London restricted us by ganging up on Leah, and by making it difficult for our shooters, due to many of them having the wing span of an ostrich! Fast break opportunities were also rare due to an expected lack of rebounds. We restricted them by sheer bloody-mindedness. The girls scrapped for everything and ran themselves into the ground (which made them even smaller!)
Consequently, neither side was able to establish a lead of any size. We had our noses in front for most of the game (mainly because mine is bigger than their coach's - big noses run in our family!) until we ran into foul trouble with 2 minutes remaining. (16 fouls in 22 minutes play to their 4!) We had also started to lose some momentum because I had made a conscious decision to use all 11 fit players in the second half. We were now down 24-26, and I opted to go small(er) and quick in a bid to put more pressure on the ball. The girls’ determination enabled us to go 30-28 up going into the last minute. London's talented point guard, Brenda KIpewu then went on a solo mission to bring it level, and I gambled on her trying to do so again. We adjusted our defense and Brenda's next 2 missions were halted by some great team defense. Meanwhile, Lucy scored her first points of the game from the short corner to see us home 32-30! It was as easy as that!
A truly wonderful achievement, girls. We are very proud of you. Thanks to parents for your absolutely brilliant support. You were by far the most rowdy group on show!
Jim 24/11/09
16 November 2009
Young Mystics North West of England Representation
This weekend 21st/22nd November sees a number of Mystics girls representing the North West of England at the Inter Regional Tournament at Lilleshall National Sports Centre in Shropshire.
Leah McDerment (making her fourth and final appearance at this competition) will Captain the North West team, along with Anna and Lucy Williams, Aleiah Johnson, Kelly Humphreys and Gina Brierley. All the girls are part of the current Under 14s team.
The girls have been training hard under the guidance of North West coach, Jim Carnegie, and are looking forward to an exciting weekend of top level basketball.
Congratulations to all the girls on your selection and good luck in the tournament.
15 November 2009
Under 16 Mystics 91 - 36 Under 16 Sefton Stars
12 November 2009
Mystics Under 16s 90 - 30 Stockport Under 16 Girls
10 November 2009
Mystics Under 16s 62 - 22 Barrow Under 16 Girls
4 November 2009
A Successful Double Header sees the Mystics rise to the top!
Sefton Stars 46 – 58 Manchester Mystics
After two wins in the league this weekend, the Mystics have moved to the top of EBL Women’s Division 2 North.
On Saturday, the Mystics played Ilkeston, and the younger Mystics shone through, playing tough in all 4 quarters. They were able to mix defences and never looked liked losing the game, with the final score 109 – 44. Mystics once again had new names on the top scorers list - this time Ashley Woodacre top scored with 20 points, another great sign for the future with the young girls having an impact.
The next day, the trip to Sefton proved to be somewhat tougher. Again, the Mystics had one or two key injuries, and one or two coming back from injury, but all credit goes to Sefton and their coach who came out fighting, and made the game very difficult for the Mystics. Sefton played aggressive man-to-man defense, and did a good job attacking the offensive boards, their player, Cass, especially grabbing rebounds and scoring, in and around the basket.
After a slow start, the Mystics had to lift their intensity and do a better job of being more aggressive on offense, and getting higher percentage shots. Improved defense slowed down Sefton’s scoring, and got the Mystics going, and scores were close all the way in to the 4th quarter. The pressure defense of the Mystics told in the final stanza, sparking the offense, and saw the Mystics score 20 points, to make the final score Sefton Stars 46 – 58 Manchester Mystics.
The Mystics now look ahead to an action-packed weekend - playing Preston on Saturday at 7:30pm, followed by a big game on Sunday in the National Cup against local rivals, Stockport, for a place in the last 8! Tip-off on Sunday is 7pm at the Amaechi Basketball Centre, and it’s sure to be a great game!
3 November 2009
Under 16 Manchester Mystics 116 - 29 Newcastle
Despite taking a very young team up to the wild north-east (only 3 of the side are ineligible next season), courtesy of 'All scousers know a man with a van,' our day out proved to be both profitable and enjoyable. Travelling together undoubtedly has a positive effect on team bonding and this was very evident on and off court today. Newcastle started the day above us in the Northern Conference league table by virtue of having played 1 game more. This is no longer the case!
With the versatile Cath Meakin deservedly finding her way into the starting 5, we, literally, sprinted into a 16-0 lead after only 5 minutes. Apart from the speed, accuracy and range of passing, what was most gratifying about such an electrifying opening was that Lucy Rogan, Leah McDerment, Molly Campbell and Holly Rush had already all helped themselves to 4 points apiece. When a team spreads the scoring, it makes it difficult for the opposition and enhances team spirit.
The introduction of the vastly improving Katie Rowlands and the fearless Danny Griffiths brought more of the same, as they, too, popped in 2 baskets each within 3 minutes of coming on. I had asked the girls to try to beat their man up and down court on every possession. Being an extremely obedient group, they did so admirably and this led to a succession of fast break opportunities for everyone. This was due, in part to their willingness to run hard and to the defensive rebounding of Molly, Holly, Polly and Dolly. (For the last 2 read Katie and Kat Benson.) Only Lolly didn't pull her weight. Even so, this tactic would not have been anything like as productive as it was were we not blessed with having a truly outstanding long-range passer in our midst. Some of Leah's passes left even the 3 Nolan Sisters -Jill, Jane and Angie- speechless! (Not an easy task!)
The 1st quarter ended with the Mystics up 32-8, in spite of some strange interpretations of the rules from a not-so-diminutive referee and his grandad. We then ran in a further unanswered 30 points without the hint of a press. This included scores from Kayleigh Johnson and Cath Meakin. Newcastle, to their credit, did cash in on several defensive lapses we had in the closing moments of the second stanza, brought about by either paralysis or ball watching, to bring it to 66-16 at half-time.
As we had emphatically demonstrated our ability to run a devastating fast break, I was keen for the girls to get something else out of the 2nd half. I suggested slowing it down and capitalising on our size advantage by running some high-low post moves. Leah did her best to orchestrate this but open players under opponents' baskets aren't easy to ignore.
The fact that everybody again saw plenty of the ball after the interval meant that the points were shared so that no less than 6 of our 9 team members hit double figures. From a final score of 116-29, Molly led the way with 22, closely followed by Katie's 20, Leah's 19, Lucy's 17, with Holly, who looked really sharp today on 16 and Kat on 10. Danny, Cath and Kayleigh left the bulk of the scoring to those 6 on this occasion but all contributed positively in other ways, particularly to the singing on the way home!
26 October 2009
Manchester Mystics 99 – 26 Preston Pride
The Mystics continued their good start to the season with a convincing victory over newcomers Preston Pride. Once again facing a team that played Zone all game, the Mystics were aggressive from the outset, moved the ball well and attacked the basket. The tight defence that has been a hallmark of the Mystics was evident, holding the visitors to just 4 points in the first quarter.
Rotating the bench and getting everyone involved, the Mystics continued to play up-tempo team basketball. The quality of the home team remained, even with different line-ups and a variety of defences, the halftime score being 55-14.
In the 2nd half, the Manchester team took the opportunity to give their younger players some experience. The Preston team kept battling throughout the game with jump shots from Whitehead and Whitrylak and an increased defensive effort.
The Mystics pushed on, looking for 100 points but in the final seconds, Blakeway missed a well-worked 3-point attempt in the corner, but the rebound was scored, making the final score 99-26. Blakeway led all scorers with 20 points, Thivillier scored 14 for the 3rd game running, and youngsters Amy Bowen and Charlotte Hughes each had 11 points.
Coach Chris Straker said “I am very happy with the way the girls are developing at the moment, and our scores are a credit to the hard work that the girls have put in training through pre-season. It speaks highly of the girls that we had 4 girls missing through injury, but are still maintaining our quality, so that girls returning from injury will have to fight for their places in the team”.
25 October 2009
Manchester Mystics U16 110 - 20 Gateshead Storm U16
The Mystics U16s continued their impressive start to the season with a clinical display at home to Gateshead. Despite being over-run from the first minute to the last, the visitors deserve credit for their exemplary attitude and endeavour. Their heads never dropped and they showed some nice touches but were unable to match Mystics physically or technically.
It did not matter which 5 of the 12 players on show today were on court, the scenario was very similar- excellent team defense, up-tempo offense and great passing. Passing is very much a neglected art but these girls can zip the ball about almost telepathically. The point-guard spot was shared between Leah McDerment, Ashley Tensel and Danielle Johnson. Each one stamped their mark on the game in their own way.
Leah is a nightmare for any defense. She is so versatile. She again showed that she can go left or right, hit the 3, see the early pass, post up or penetrate and dish. Ashley poses different problems with her pace and tremendous strength. Like Leah, her passing today was of the highest order. I lost count of the number of assists these two made in the game.(I'm easily confused!) Danielle is unable to intimidate opponents physically and so her contribution tends to be more understated. She distributed the ball well and rarely turned it over. She should be pleased with her performance.
Having such talented, unselfish guards meant that the ball, and the points, were shared. This is great for team spirit and not so great for the opposition, especially when the ball goes inside to the ever-improving twin towers, Molly Campbell and Katie Rowlands.This formidable duo totally dominated the boards and give us a presence in the paint which could prove crucial as the season progresses.
A mammoth 31 points were registered in the opening 10 minutes and the next 10 saw little change. Mystics continued to move the ball quickly and accurately. The combination of ball and player movement proved too much for a young- looking, diminuative Gateshead side. The endless flow of pin-point passes from Leah and Ashley led to a plethora of fast break opportunities from the highly impressive quartet of willing runners in Lucy Rogan, Holly Rush, Melissa Golaub and Natalie Feurtado. At times, I thought the land speed record was in danger of being broken as they flashed up court! Herein, Lucy and Holly also showed their versatility because, with the game being played at such a fast pace, their outside shooting prowess was not called upon.
Turning round at 59-14 prompted even more frequent changes of personnel in the third quarter. This inevitably interupted our rhythm somewhat but we still managed to add 20 points to our tally with Cath Meakin, Danny Griffiths and Kat Benson showing everyone just how much they have improved since last season. Cath is now more confident and is developing a reliable medium-range jump shot as well as an explosive drive with either hand. Danny is a coach's dream. She makes little of her lack of size to be a genuine inside threat due to her tenacity and fearlessness. She passes the ball early and with power and has a nose for the rebound. Kat impessed me today. She was prominent both inside and out, hitting well from the short corner and getting several put-backs due to some smart mirror-image rebounding. These are both principles we work on in training which shows she listens and learns.
The fourth quarter was nothing short of an exhibition. The girls shared the basketball with great maturity, remained focused and did not let up defensively. For me, the two most pleasing aspects of the 116-20 victory were, firstly, that everyone played with smiles on their faces throughout. The team spirit was first-class. Secondly, no less than 6 of the team-Leah, Ashley, Cath, Molly,Kat and Lucy managed double figures, with a seventh,Natalie just 1short.
I now am convinced that we have at least 14 players of quality in our squad. Regretfully, I can't play everyone in every game but please remain patient and grab the opportunity when your chance comes. If our team work and team spirit remain as they are (and we train hard!), the sky is the limit.
21 October 2009
Manchester Mystics 80 - 61 Sheffield Hallam Hatters
The Manchester Mystics kicked off their league season with a tough away victory at All Saints Sports Centre in Sheffield.
Uncharacteristically, the Sheffield team played zone defence all game which slowed down the Mystics early in the game, and made life difficult for the Manchester team, making the score 18-14 at the end of the 1st quarter. Slowly but surely the visitors found their way in to the game, gradually becoming more aggressive against the zone. However, missed shots meant that Manchester still trailed by 4 at half time.
First time starter, Tracey Caton, grew in confidence with every second on the court, using a variety of moves to attack the basket and create jump shots, and the Mystics took the lead in the 3rd quarter, leading by 6 going in to the final stanza. The Mystics’ defensive pressure and variety of defences was beginning to show on the home team, and more turnovers by Sheffield led to easy baskets for Manchester, who now began to build on their lead. Showing their strength and fitness, the Mystics pulled away as the 4th quarter drew on, the final score being Sheffield Hallam Hatters 61 – 80 Manchester Mystics.
Top Scorers
Sheffield: Campbell 15, Gangstad 15, Kirk 11
Manchester: Caton 22, Blakeway 17, Thivillier 11
18 October 2009
Under 16 Mystics first League Game of the Season
Stockport 45 - 80 Manchester Mystics
After a thoroughly successful pre-season comprising of 7 wins in 7 games against the likes of Sheffield, Killester, St.Mirren and Southend, the season proper began with a tricky away fixture at Stockport. With the majority of the home side being made up of girls from the talented Priestnall school team, Stockport were expected to be well organised, used to playing with each other and a tough nut to crack. Fortunately, we had plenty of nut crackers on hand.
The opposition opted to come out in a 212 zone and possess sufficient size, strength and pace to make things awkward for any team at this level. They scored the first 4 points as our girls took their time to get accustomed to the challenge. A few misplaced passes, hurried shots from too far out and an inability to prevent the Stockport guards leaking out on the break prompted an alteration to a full-court press. This immediately served its purpose by scattering the zone and upping our defensive intensity, leading to numerous turn overs by our flustered opponents.
We were now well in control with our quickest unit on the floor but then an injury to Ashley Tensel, one of our main scorers and leading stealers, forced us into a change. We went big with Molly Campbell and Katie Rowlands in tandem. This saw us call off the press but we could now be much more of an inside threat which would be no bad thing as only the hugely influential Leah McDerment was able to hit consistently from outside so far. The move worked well and we bagged 24 points in the opening 10 minutes despite not being at our fluent best.
A12 point swing had established an 8 point lead and with Ashley still troubled by her swollen finger, I decided to stay with the policy of trying to go inside and also to give everyone some court time. Without having to deal with the press, Stockport took the opportunity of slowing the game down and the 2nd quarter was a low scoring affair. We shaded the period 10-6, with Leah notching 6 of our 10.
Turning round at 34-22, I set the girls a target of trying to win the game by 30. This would not be easy against determined opponents who matched us physically in every way. Regular switches from pressing to going big caused continued problems for Stockport. We were now creating numerous scoring opportunities in the key. Not enough of them were converted but this can be put right at training. Even so, with Lucy Rogan, Cath Meakin, Holly Rush and Danny Griffiths (inspite of her long journey!) working tirelessly, we again managed a most creditable 24 points in the quarter to extend our lead at 58-34.
We were now far less tense and were passing the ball quickly and accurately. The fourth period proved to be very one-sided in terms of possession and chances created. Plenty were again missed, due mainly to poor use of the backboard, but we still ran in another 22 points with Katie, Lucy, Ashley, Leah, Molly, Holly and Kat Benson all contributing baskets in the quarter to finish at 80-45.
Top teams need players who are adaptable and smart. Prevented from playing our normal free-flowing up-tempo basketball by a good Stockport side, the girls found other ways of being effective. Leah led from the front. She decided to out-shoot the zone. By swishing 4 three pointers and collecting 29 points, her decision proved to be a sound one, in keeping with most things she does.
Ashley overcame the inconvenience of her injury to wade in with 12 points and she and Lucy made countless steals and deflections which led to easy scores for team-mates.
Molly and Katie pulled endless rebounds and hit 25 points between them. This pair will reek havoc once they learn to sight the target and bank the ball more consistently.
Holly and Kayleigh Johnson did not get as many open looks as they are used to but they contributed positively in other ways, with Holly being perfect from the free-throw line. Both worked very hard defensively and moved their feet well.
Cath's defensive display was as full of endeavour as it always is and she looked lively on offense. As did Danny. She put herself about in her usual fearless manner and fitted in well.
Kat did not see much of the ball but looked a threat from the short corner and showed that she is an ever-improving defender. As a consequence, it would be true to say that all 10 players were instrumental in our winning start. With a number of talented players unable to get a game this time, we have genuine strength in depth and competition for places should help to maintain a high standard of performance throughout the season.
Jim. 18/10/09
14 October 2009
Mystics Shock Division 1 Northumbria in the 1st Round!
Team Northumbria 59 - 84 Manchester Mystics
Saturday saw the Manchester Mystics cause the biggest shock of the weekend, beating Division 1 Northumbria by 25pts at the Coach Lane Sports Centre in Newcastle.
The Mystics came out with tough defense and good offensive play from the break, rotating players in and out of the game early, and leading by as much as 9 in the 2nd quarter. Good shooting from Northumbria’s guards meant that the away team’s lead was just 3 at half-time.
The early stages of the 3rd were closely contested, but the Mystics never gave up their lead, and as the quarter drew on, the Mystics began to increase their lead again with good scoring inside, eventually leading by 9 at the end of the quarter.
In the final quarter, full-court intensity from the Mystics piled the pressure on the tiring Northumbria team, and the outside shots rained in from the Mystics who scored 30 points and finished the game with a 25 point lead.
This is a great start to the season for the young Mystics, who will now go on to face Stockport Lapwings at the Amaechi Basketball Centre in the next round.
8 July 2009
North West Winners
Our Mystics girls had a great weekend at Jesse Boot in the Inter-Regional Under 17 Competition. The North West were worthy winners with a win over Yorkshire in the Final by 71 - 59. The Mystics who took part were:
| Maeve Higham (Captain) |
| Nicolette Fonglyewquee |
| Tracey Caton |
| Holly Rush |
| Mollie Campbell |
| Charlotte Hughes |
| Ashley Woodacre |
Ably coached by Chris Straker (Manchester) and Nick Ibberson (Bury), the team represented the North West area extremely well, both on and off the floor.
2 July 2009
Inter-Regional Girls
The Inter-Regional Competition involves 10 areas, covering the whole of the country and for the Girls, it is to be held on 4/5 July at Jesse Boot Arena in Nottingham. The age-group for the competition is Under 17 and our Club will be well represented for the North West Region.
Congratulations to the following girls on their selection:
| Maeve Higham |
| Nicolette Fonglyewquee |
| Tracey Caton |
| Holly Rush |
| Mollie Campbell |
| Charlotte Hughes |
| Ashley Woodacre |
22 June 2009
The Mystics will play in Division 2 next season, due to many of the Senior girls moving on to other situations. Kelsey Bardsley and Charlotte Stoddart move to the States on scholarships and Kristie Sheils moves to Leeds Carnegie to continue her education and join the Basketball Academy in Leeds. We wish her well.
Emma Macready and Nicky Blakeway return next year and will be the mainstays of a very young team which will gain great experience at Division 2 level.
Reports of Season 2008/09 games
4 May 2009
This brief report of the Under 18 Girls Final at Cosford is from Peter Jacques website - Pawprint. See link on links page.
U-18 Women Final
Haringey Angels (20, 37, 48) 60
Manchester Mystics (15, 23, 34) 49
A gritty performance by Haringey saw them overcome a determined Manchester side, to regain the Under-18 Women's title which they had won for three years in a row from 2005 to 2007.
Haringey : Josephine Salmon 13; Ella Clarke 11 [+14 reb.; + 6 blocks]; Krystal Charles 9; Chanel Lassman 9; Miriam Seale 9; Jamilia Thompson 6; Chantel Charles 3; Shea Simpson; Charlene St. Marthe; Stephanie Duru dnp]; Niquelle LaTouche [dnp]; Teresa Jackson [dnp].
Manchester : Charlotte Stoddart 17 [+7 reb.; +6 steals]; Kirstie Shiels 15; Kelsey Bardsley 7; Lauren Quigley 5; Maeve Higham 2; Nicolette Fonglyewquee 2; Kerri-Leanne Taylor 1; Chelsea Tensel; Rosie Hynes [dnp]; Holly Rush [dnp].
20 March 2009
Young Mystics Shine in Schools Tournament
Four of the current Under 14s Mystics squad were in action last weekend at the England Schools National Finals at Nottingham Wildcats arena.
Kelly Humphreys, Anna and Lucy Williams and Leah McDerment were representing Priestnall School Stockport.
They finished as runners-up, losing only to Great Baddow who, unbeaten in the round-robin competition, went on to claim the title.
The weekend ended on a high with Leah being awarded tournament MVP as voted by opposition coaches.
The girls all had good court time, and coped admirably against some very strong teams and will find the experience invaluable leading up to the play-offs.
Well done girls.
20 January 2009
Mystics Under 18s win a thriller at the Amaechi BC to reach National Final!!
Sunday 18th January saw the Manchester Mystics face the Haringey Angels in the Under 18 Women’s National Cup Semi-final. The game proved to be a thriller as well as a great game of basketball!
A nervous start to the game saw Manchester playing good defence, but failing to convert their interceptions at the offensive end. Despite the missed lay-up opportunities, the game was close, with baskets from Maeve Higham keeping the home teams scoring ticking over. With both teams fighting hard to establish an early lead in the game, good outside shooting saw the visitors stretch out a 7-point gap seven minutes into the game.
Going in to the 2nd quarter, the Mystics lifted their intensity on defence and limited the turnovers that had cost them earlier in the game. Quality basketball on the part of both teams saw 3 lead changes in this quarter alone. Baskets from Charlotte Stoddart and a couple of 3’s from Kristy Shiels helped to bring the home team back level as the 1st half came to an end.
At half-time, the Manchester players spoke of execution and composure - two things they showed plenty of throughout the 2nd half.
In the 3rd quarter, excellent half-court offence, and contributions from all, meant the home team edged in fron, opening a small lead getting ahead by as many as 9 points towards the end of the quarter.
The team from Haringey came out fighting in the 4th, and scores from Renee Johnson-Allen, Krystal Charles and Thompson saw the Angels claw their way back into the lead with 3 minutes left to play in the game.
It was a nail-biting finish, with a basket from Kelsey Bardsley, followed by a 3-point play, a lay-up and 1 from Sheils. In the final minutes, 6 from 6 free throws by Stoddart and Nicolette Fonglyequee took the Manchester Mystics over the winning line and booked them a place in the National Cup Final!
This was a great game, well-fought by both teams. Chris Straker was very proud of the team’s performance and said “It was a great team effort with contributions from everybody; I was delighted with the focus and discipline of the players under pressure. Now we are looking forward to preparing well for the Final”.
The Mystics will take on Southend Swifts in the Final on Sunday February 8th at the Nottingham Wildcats Arena on the Women’s Day of Basketball 2009.
Chris Straker
25 November 2008
A tough loss for the Mystics!
Nottingham 75 - 62 Manchester Mystics
On Saturday 22 November, the Mystics returned to the land of Robin Hood, to face the Wildcats of Nottingham - the team which Mystics beat by 12 points in the Play-offs, to secure a place in the Final Fours in April. With an early lead, it looked like this game might turn out the same way. However, a closely fought game saw the home team pull away as the game went on, eventually winning the game by 13.
The first quarter started well for the visiting Mystics, good ball movement and attacking the basket saw Glessner pick up two early fouls and have to come out from the game. This was a big loss for the home side. Before the end of the half, both of Nottingham’s Centres had picked up 3 fouls, struggling to keep up with the Mystics’ dribble penetration.
Going in to the second quarter, both teams were making adjustments, as the game went back and forth, and every possession was toughly contested. Turnovers from Mystics helped the Wildcats put on a run, seeing them build a double digit lead. To their credit the young Mystics held there nerve, and found ways to break down the zone defence Nottingham had adopted, and found their way back in to the game. The lead for the home side at half time was 7 points down from 15 earlier in the quarter.
In the third quarter, the Manchester team did well scoring 21 points, with contributions from Flood, Sheils and Blakeway to try and get themselves into a position to win the game. Unfortunately, they gave away too many easy baskets, and the Wildcats extended their lead to 11.
In the fourth quarter, there was drama with a questionable non-restart of the shot clock during a Manchester offense which had the Mystics puzzled, but ultimately had no bearing on the outcome of the game. The contest was fought to the end, with the eventual outcome Nottingham Wildcats 75 - Manchester Mystics 62.
The Mystics are learning and growing with each game, and with continued progress, the squad and coaching staff are surethat the results will begin to go their way soon.
Top Scorers:
Mystics: Caitlin Flood 28, Kristie Sheils 10, Nicky Blakeway 8
Wildcats: Jill Glessner 27, Kate Butters 26, Hannah Shaw 13
12 November 2008
Manchester Mystics 48 - 78 London Acers
Saturday November 8th 2008
After two thrilling games at Cardiff and Leeds the previous weekend, the Mystics now faced London Acers in their first league home game of the year. With Caitlin Flood out injured and Emma Macready returning from an ankle injury, this was always going to be a challenging game for the young Mystics.
Missed lay-ups and a slow start on defence saw the Mystics go down 16-0 early in the game. Going in to the second quarter, the home team stepped up the defence and forced the team from the capital to turn the ball over. The pressure defence slowly helped the Mystics to reduce the deficit. As the score difference was reduced the crowd gave more vocal support to the home team, and it looked as if the game would become a close contest. Acers then managed to end the fight back with a couple of fast break points as the second quarter came to a close, with the half time score Manchester 28, London 40.
Manchester then only managed 20 points in the whole of the second half. While Acers continued to be able to score, with two of the London players reaching 20 points in the game. A high point for the Mystics was 14 points from Charlotte Stoddart, but the home team clearly missed the scoring presence of Caitlin Flood, eventually losing the game by 30 points, 48-78.
With no league game next weekend the team has time to recover and recuperate in time for the away fixture against Nottingham on November 22nd.
Top Scorers:
Mystics: Charlotte Stoddart 14, Kristie Sheils 8, Jess Tensel 7
Acers: Katarzyna Bruzcko 25, Floreana Piano 20, Lucimara Da Silva 14
2007/2008 Season Reports
15 April 2008
Mystics Season Comes to an End
Semi-Final: Sheffield Hatters 88 - 63 Manchester Mystics
For Mike Arnfield's photos of the game, click here
The 2007-2008 Manchester Mystics season has officially come to an end after losing to the City of Sheffield Hatters 63-88 in the semi-final of the EBL Division One Women’s playoff game. Rehana Khalil led the Mystics with 22 points. Georgia Jones and Joanna Clayden each chipped in 10 points, while Charlotte Stoddart had 8 points to go along with 8 rebounds.
Despite the season ending with a loss, the Mystics have enjoyed one of their most successful seasons as they finished fourth in the league, and won their first-ever home playoff game to send them to the Final Four. The Mystics will look to continue this success into next season.
Thanks again to all our supporters for everything you have done this season!!!
Top Scorers:
Mystics: Rehana Khalil 22; Georgia Jones/Joanna Clayden 10
Hatters: Stephanie Gandy 26; Sarah Naylor 22; Erica McCoy 16
7 April 2008
Manchester Mystics 79 - 71 Nottingham Wildcats
For Mike Arnfield's photos of the game, click here
In the first year that England Basketball is hosting a Final Four, the Manchester Mystics will be a part of it. With the Mystics win in the Quarter Finals against the Nottingham Wildcats, 79-71, on Saturday afternoon, they have punched their ticket to the Final Four in Sheffield this weekend, 12/13 April.
On her 22nd birthday, Rehana Khalil led all scorers with 30 points, as she was determined to get the birthday present she asked for - a Mystics victory! Three other Mystics were in double figures, with Georgia Jones scoring 16, Megan Osmer with 13 and Joanna Clayden with 10. Charlotte Stoddart was also a big contributor with 9 points and a handful of rebounds.
The game was tight the whole way through, and the Mystics found themselves down by one point going into halftime. Outscored by five points in the third quarter, the Mystics found themselves down six points going into the fourth quarter. With the possible end of their season hanging in the balance, the Mystics stepped up, and completely took control in the fourth quarter, outscoring Nottingham 20-7.
The Mystics will face the Sheffield Hatters in a semi-final match-up at 12 noon on Saturday 12 April at the English Institute of Sport, Sheffield. For tickets and more information about the Final Four go to www.englandbasketball.co.uk.
Top Scorers:
Mystics: Rehana Khalil 30, Georgia Jones 16, Megan Osmer 13
Wildcats: Jill Glessner 22, Nicole Woods 21, K Butters 11
2 April 2008
Manchester Mystics Looking Forward To Home Playoff Game
The fourth-seeded Manchester Mystics will host the fifth-seeded Nottingham Wildcats this Saturday in the quarter finals of the EBL Division One Women’s playoffs at the Amaechi Basketball Centre. The winner will move on to the Final Fours in Sheffield on 12/13 April. The match-up will be a good one, as the two sides split during the regular season, each winning their home match.
The Mystics win came in the beginning of December, when theybeat the Wildcats 82-70 with both squads at full strength. The Wildcats win came in mid-February, 63-51, with a key player missing on each of their rosters.
The Mystics head coach, Sergio Lara-Bercial, is looking forward to the match-up.
“We are very excited about the game against the Wildcats. After a very eventful season, we have clinched fourth place and secured a home QF game, which is a testament to how strong this group of players is and their determination to succeed."
"The Wildcats are a very balanced team with strengths in many areas and a great work ratio. A lot of their players have stepped up big time since Jill Glessner went down with a broken foot and that has even made them stronger"
"We have had our own share of injuries this year but the team reacted very well to losing Georgia Jones back in February. Everyone in the team understood they needed to give a little more to stay in contention, and proof of that is the fact that we won four very tough games without her. Now that Georgia is back we are even stronger"
"I think the game on Saturday will be a very close contest and that the "little things" will determine the final outcome since both teams are very evenly matched".
The Manchester Mystics will take on the Nottingham Wildcats at 4:00pm on Saturday 5 April at the Amaechi Basketball Centre in Manchester.
25 March 2008
Mystics Claim Fourth Place With Win Over UWIC!!
Manchester Mystics 65 - 47 UWIC Archers
With a little help from the Rhondda Rebels, the Manchester Mystics took sole possession of fourth place this weekend as they defeated UWIC 65-47 on Saturday night. With the Mystics win, and Rhondda’s win over Nottingham, the Mystics finished one game above Nottingham, and will now play their opening round playoff game at home, against Nottingham.
Joanna Clayden led the way with 24 points and grabbing 12 rebounds, with Rehana Khalil chipping in 20 points. In her first game back from breaking her hand in the February U18’s Cup Final, Georgia Jones had 9 points and 3 assists in 32 minutes of play.
The Mystics started off the first quarter hot, and at one point were up 19-4. However UWIC surged back in the second quarter and the Mystics went into half-time only up 8 points. In the third quarter, the Mystics would not be denied as they scored 20 points and held the Archers to only 6 points. In the final quarter the Mystics were outscored by 4 points but still won by 18 points.
The playoff game against the Nottingham Wildcats will be on Saturday 5th April with the time still to be determined.
Top Scorers:
Mystics: Joanna Clayden 24, Rehana Khalil 20, Georgia Jones 9
Archers : Val Doherty 13, Ilze Zekite 7, Trudie Hopgood & Ruth Murphy 6
19 March 2008
Mystics Hold On and Get Big Win at Sevenoaks
Sevenoaks Suns 61 - 63 Manchester Mystics
The Manchester Mystics escaped a close one last Saturday night as they beat Sevenoaks 63-61 in London. The game was a must-win game for the Mystics as they are still fighting to finish fourth in the league and secure home court advantage in the first round of the playoffs.
Joanna Clayden led the way with 27 points, while Rehana Khalil scored 17 and Megan Osmer chipped in with 11 points.
The Mystics started out hot and jumped to a 19-7 lead at the end of the first quarter, but by halftime Sevenoaks had fought their way back into the game and were only down by 5 points. The second half was close all the way as the Mystics got outscored in both the third and fourth quarter. However the Mystics kept their composure and were able to come away with the win.
The Mystics next and final regular season home game will be this Saturday 22nd March at 4pm. The Mystics must win this game, if they want a chance to secure fourth place in the league!
Top Scorers:
Mystics: Joanna Clayden 27, Rehana Khalil 17, Megan Osmer 11
Suns: N Avery 19, K Lewis 15, A Deng 7
9 March 2008
Mystics Shut Down Acers!
Manchester Mystics 65 - 43 London Acers
For Mike Arnfield's photos of the game, click here
The Manchester Mystics defeated the London Heathrow Acers 65-43 over the weekend. With the win, the Mystics move into a tie with Nottingham Wildcats for fourth place in the league. Joanna Clayden had a team high 18 points with Rehana Khalil adding 14 points. Charlotte Stoddart had a huge game, scoring 13 points and grabbing 12 rebounds.
The Mystics held the Acers to 43 points for the game, the lowest number of points scored against the Mystics all season in league play. The Mystics held the Acers to only 15 points in the first half and went into halftime with a 19 point lead. In the second half, the Acers picked up their scoring, but the Mystics stayed tough and went on to win by 18 points.
The Mystics have two more regular season games, and must win both of them if they want a chance at finishing fourth in the league, and securing home court advantage for the first round of the playoffs.
The Mystics last regular season home game will be Saturday March 22nd at 4pm against UWIC.
Top Scorers:
Mystics: Joanna Clayden 18, Rehana Khalil 14, Charlotte Stoddart 13
Acers: Patricia Da Silva 21, Jackie Codiga 6, Rebecca Lear 6
3 March 2008
Mystics Come Up Short in Rhondda
Rhondda Rebels 69 - 55 Manchester Mystics
The Manchester Mystics came up short against the league leaders, Rhondda Rebels, on St David's Day, in Wales, as they lost 55-69. Joanna Clayden had a team-high 21 points, with Rehana Khalil scoring 12 points, and Megan Osmer chipping in 10 points.
The Mystics hung with the Rebels and found themselves only down 6 after the first quarter. However, by half time, Rhondda's lead had grown to 17 points. In the second half the Mystics scrapped back, but just couldn't seem to get within single digits of the Rebels.
Rhondda shot 17 free throws while the Mystics only shot 9, and, the Mystics committed 23 turnovers while Rhondda only committed 17. The Mystics were also outrebounded by 6 and had fewer assists than the Rebels.
The Mystics will return home this Saturday for a big match-up with the London Heathrow Acers. Tip-off is at 4pm at the Amaechi Basketball Centre.
Top Scorers:
Manchester Mystics: Joanna Clayden 21; Megan Osmer 10; Rehana Khalil 12
Rhondda Rebels: Copeland 21; Brown 21; Congreaves 10
28 February 2008
Mystics Get Back on Track
Manchester Mystics 75 - 64 London Towers
The Manchester Mystics got back on track Saturday, as they defeated London Towers at home 75-64. Joanna Clayden had a game high 22 points with Rehana Khalil scoring 13 points. Both Kelsey Bardsley and Nicki Blakeway played big minutes and really stepped up and gave the Mystics a lift, as Bardsley scored 12 points and Blakeway scored 11.
The Mystics received 21 points off their bench as Towers managed to only score 6 points from theirs. The Mystics were outrebounded by 6, but had 9 more assists and 3 less turnovers than Towers.
The Mystics led the entire game, but could never really break the lead wide open as they only ended up winning by 11. Despite the final score, it was a good team win as the Mystics are still trying to figure out how to fill the shoes of Georgia Jones. The win puts the Mystics back into fifth place in the league, as they continue to fight for the fourth place spot, and a chance to play at home in the first round of the playoffs.
The Mystics will face Rhonda away this Saturday 1 March.
Top Scorers:
Mystics: Joanna Clayden 22, Rehana Khalil 13, Kelsey Bardsley 12
Towers: M Durojaye 20, A Wanstall 17, K Runciman/S Morton 8
22 February 2008
Mystics Drop Third Straight Game
Nottingham Wildcats 63 - 51 Manchester Mystics
For the third straight weekend, the Mystics have not been able to come away with a victory, as they lost in Nottingham 63-51 last Saturday night. Both teams struggled to score at the start of the game, with the two teams only scoring a combined 15 points in the first quarter.
The Mystics trailed by 13 points going into halftime, and were never able to recover. Joanna Clayden had a team high 19 points, while Megan Osmer chipped in with 10 points and Rehana Khalil and Charlotte Stoddart each had 8 points.
The Mystics will look to end their three game skid at home on Saturday 23rd February at 7:30pm against the London Towers.
Top Scorers
Mystics: Joanna Clayden 19; Megan Osmer 10; Rehana Khalil/Charlotte Stoddart 8
Wildcats: J Deckerova 22; Kate Butters 19; N Woods 11
19 February 2008
Mystics Drop Tough Home Game to Sheffield
Manchester Mystics 74 - 89 Sheffield Hatters
For Mike Arnfield's photos of the game, click here
After the City of Sheffield Hatters arrived 45 minutes late due to traffic, the Manchester Mystics jumped on them, and scored 16 unanswered points. However, the mystics found it difficult to sustain this and Sheffield began to slowly chip away, with the Mystics just holding on to lead by 7 at half time.
Unfortunately, the third quarter would again be the Mystics nemesis, as they only managed to score 9 points, while allowing Sheffield to score 28 points. The fourth quarter scoring was even but the Mystics could not manage to make up for their lack of scoring in the previous quarter, and ended up losing by 15 points.
Georgia Jones led the way for the Mystics with 27 points, while hitting 7/11 three pointers. Joanna Clayden had 20 points while Rehana Khalil chipped in with 13 points. Sheffield's Stephanie Gandy scored a game high 37 points.
Top Scorers
Mystics: Georgia Jones 27; Joanna Clayden 20; Rehana Khalil 13
Hatters: Stephanie Gandy 37; Sarah Naylor 21; Lisa Hutchinson 12
5 February 2008
Mystics Lose on the Road
Team Northumbria 114 - 90 Manchester Mystics
The Manchester Mystics dropped a tough road game this weekend(2 February), as they lost 90-114 to Team Northumbria. The loss drops the Mystics to a tie for fourth place with Nottingham in the league standings. Joanna Clayden had a team high 30 points, with Rehana Khalil scoring 17 and Georgia Jones chipping in 14 points.
The Mystics played tough throughout the first half and were only down five points going into halftime. Still with the game in reach, the Mystics went into the third quarter down 11 points. Foul trouble for the Mystics and lights-out shooting from Northumbria, proved to be too much, as the game slipped out of reach in the fourth quarter.
The Mystics will try and bounce back against the City of Sheffield Hatters this Saturday February 9th at the Amaechi Basketball Centre.
Top Scorers
Mystics: Joanna Clayden 30; Rehana Khalil 17; Georgia Jones 14
Team Northumbria: L Hall 38; J Colbert 31;Z Vickers/L Calder 20
5 February 2008
Mystics Get Big Win in Double Overtime
Manchester Mystics 88 - 81** Solent Suns
The Manchester Mystics got a huge victory this weekend (26 January) as they defeated the Solent Suns 88-81 in double overtime. With the win, the Mystics move to third place in the league and have swept Solent in the regular season.
All five of the Mystics starters scored in double figures with Rehana Khalil leading the way with 25 points. Georgia Jones scored 19, Joanna Clayden 17 and Charlotte Stoddart and Megan Osmer 11 points each. Clayden also had a game high 15 rebounds with Stoddart and Osmer each grabbing 8 each.
The Mystics came out hot as they went on a 23-6 run to open the game, but Solent fought back and were only down nine points by halftime. The Mystics couldn't find their rhythm in the 3rd quarter as they only managed to score 9 points to Solent's 20 points.
Going into the fourth quarter, the Mystics were only down by two points, but after an and-one play and two lay-ups by Solent, the Mystics found themselves down by 8 points with less then five minutes to go in the game. Back-to-back three-pointers by Clayden and Khalil brought Manchester back, and a lay-up by Osmer tied the game at 63 all, with one minute to go in the game. Solent had a chance to go ahead but missed three free throws. The Mystics got off a three-point attempt at the buzzer but it was off the mark.
In overtime the Suns quickly scored the first two baskets, putting them up 67-63. But clutch free-throw shooting by Jones, Khalil and Osmer put the Mystics up 69-67. Solent tied the game with two free throws of their own and a lay-up attempt by the Mystics at the buzzer rattled out.
In the second overtime, the game was back and forth the whole way, as both teams doubled their scoring from the previous overtime. With less then a minute to go, a brilliant and-one move by Stoddart put the Mystics up for good as Jones hit four crucial free throws in the final seconds to seal the win for the Mystics!
Top Scorers
Mystics: Rehana Khalil 25; Georgia Jones 19; Joanna Clayden 17
Suns: Joann Overstreet 19; Caroline Turner 15; Katharina Wohlberg 14
25 January 2008
Mystics Get Big Win in Cardiff
UWIC Archers 55 - 68 Manchester Mystics
The Manchester Mystics got a big win over the weekend as they travelled to Cardiff to play the UWIC Archers. This win puts the Mystics back into fourth place in the league, after dropping a couple spots earlier in the month with the loss to the London Acers.
Joanna Clayden led all scorers with 21 points, with Rehana Khalil scoring 20 and Georgia Jones chipping in with 13 points. The Mystics led the entire game and in back-to-back weekends, again held their opponent to only 55 points. In a great overall team effort, the Mystics defence was a huge key in the win, and everyone who stepped on the floor contributed.
The Mystics are back at home on January 26th against the Solent Suns at 7:30pm.
Top Scorers:
Mystics: J Claydon 21, R Khalil 20, G Jones 13
Archers: J Hopgood 13, S Collins 12, I Zekite 8
13 January 2008
Mystics Get Back on Track
Manchester Mystics 67 - 55 Sevenoaks Suns
For Mike Arnfield's photos of the game, click here
The Manchester Mystics got back to their winning ways as they defeated Sevenoaks 67-55 on Saturday night at the Amaechi Basketball Centre. Joanna Clayden led all scorers with 24 points as Rehana Khalil scored 12 points and Lara Maestre chipped in with 8 points. Charlotte Stoddart pitched in by grabbing a game-high 9 rebounds.
Going into halftime, the Mystics were up 44-25 and looked as though they would cruise to an easy victory. Sevenoaks had other plans however as they mounted a 24-point third quarter to the Mystics 4-point effort.
Despite going into the fourth quarter down by one, the Mystics remained calm as they mounted a comeback of their own, holding Sevenoaks to just 6 points as they went on to win by 12 points.
The Mystics will be back at home again on January 26th against the Solent Suns at 7:30 pm.
Top Scorers:
Mystics: Joanna Clayden 24, Rehana Khalil 12, Lara Maestre 8
Suns: C Turner 14 A Deng 13 N Avery 10
7 January 2008
Mystics Lose Tough Game in London
London Heathrow Acers 68 - 60 Manchester Mystics
The Manchester Mystics didn't quite kick off the New Year how they would have liked, as they lost to the London Heathrow Acers 68-60 on Saturday. Rehana Khalil scored a game high 24 points, with Joanna Clayden scoring 18 points and Georgia Jones pitching in with 7 points.
Going into halftime down by 11, the Mystics rallied, and by the end of the third quarter were only down 6 points. However, Manchester was never able to bring it closer than within 4 points. The Mystics never led in game, and only outscored the Acers in the third quarter.
It was a disappointing game for Manchester, as they missed several open lay-ups and had some costly turnovers towards the end of the game. The Mystics will look to get back to their winning ways this Saturday, as they host the Sevenoaks Suns at 7:30 pm at the Amaechi Basketball Centre.
Top Scorers:
Mystics: Rehana Khalil 24, Joanna Clayden 18, Georgia Jones 7
Acers: P Da Silva 16; L Da Silva 15; B Lear 12
18 December 2007
Mystics Go Down Swinging
Manchester Mystics 62 - 86 Rhondda Rebels
Manchester Mystics lost a tough game at home, 62-86, to the Coca-Cola Rhondda Rebels on Saturday night. Despite losing by 24 points, the Mystics played better than the final score showed. Holding the Rebels to just 15 points in the third quarter, Manchester were able to bring the gap to within 6 points. However, Rhondda showed why they are undefeated, and ran away with the game in the 4th quarter.
Rehana Khalil's 3-point heroics kept the Mystics in the game throughout the first half, as she was 6-9 from the 3-point line and led the Mystics with a team high 27 points and 8 rebounds. However even Khalil's hot-shooting couldn't make up for the 26 turnovers made by Manchester throughout the contest.
Georgia Jones put up 16 points and Joanna Clayden chipped in with 10, while Megan Osmer grabbed a game high 9 rebounds. Kirby Copeland led all scores with 29 points for Rhondda.
All of the Mystics saw court time, while the younger players once again provided a much-needed lift when called upon.
Despite the loss, the Mystics will break for Christmas on a positive note, as they have had a fantastic start to the season. The first home game back will be Saturday January 12th against Sevenoaks.
17 December 2007
Mystics' players attend Levenshulme High School's 'Celebration of Women in Sport Conference'
Mystics' players Lara Maestre and Megan Osmer attended last week's 'Celebration of Women in Sport Conference' at Levenshulme High School for Girls, as guest speakers. The keynote speaker was Beth Tweedle, a renowned gymnast from Cheshire. She won Britain's first-ever World Gymnastics Championship gold medal in the uneven bars competition, and has won a National title every year since 2001.
The conference also included speeches by former and current students and performances by the cheerleading team and PE classes. It was a great opportunity to get some exposure for the Mystics, and promote the girls sessions that are run at the Amaechi Basketball Centre.
14 December 2007
Mystics Top Towers
Saturday December 8th
After a long coach ride and a delayed start to the game, the Mystics still came out strong and defeated London Towers 74-43 on Saturday night. Rehana Khalil scored a game high 21 points, with Nicki Blakeway adding 10 points and Joanna Clayden and Lara Maestre chipping in 9 points each.
After a bit of slow start offensively, the Mystics really picked up the slack on the defensive end, and were able to get their offense going off of a couple turnovers by London, and went into halftime up 35-23. In the second half, Khalil provided some much needed scoring and the Mystics finished the game winning by 31 points. All of the Mystics saw action in the game, and the younger players especially made a big contribution towards the win.
With the win, the Mystics are now 4-1 in the league, and in third place overall, just below Rhondda and Sheffield. They continue to add to the best start ever in Mystics history, and look to put an upset on this season's resume, as they take on Rhondda this Saturday, 15th December, in their last game before Christmas break!
14 December 2007
Mystics Host Friendly with Team from Nigeria
December 4th, 2007
The Manchester Mystics hosted a friendly with the Queen of Rosary Basketball Team from Nigeria. The Mystics got off to a bit of a slow start, but really pulled away in the second quarter to end the half up 39-22. In the second half, the Mystics stepped-up and showed their maturity as they only allowed Queen of Rosary to score 17 points for the rest of the game, ending with a final score of 92-39. Megan Osmer led the Mystics with 23 points, and Georgia Jones with 14 and Rehana Khalil with 10 points were the other main scorers.
It was a great opportunity for the Mystics and the Queen of Rosary girls to see that basketball can bring people together from across the globe, and gave the Queen of Rosary team a chance to see another country. We wish the Queen of Rosary Girls the best of luck for the rest of their season!
4 December 2007
Mystics Back to Winning Ways!
After two consecutive losses to The City of Sheffield Hatters, the Mystics are back on track after an 82-70 win over the Nottingham Wildcats. Joanna Clayden had a team high 22 points, followed by Georgia Jones with 21 points and Rehana Khalil with 15 points. Charlotte Stoddart had a game high 10 rebounds, while Khalil also grabbed 7 rebounds of her own.
The start of the first quarter was back and forth, with the Wildcats getting 12 of their 22 points from the free throw line, while the Mystics only scored three points in the last four minutes of the quarter to leave them with 16 points.
The second quarter saw the Mystics pick up their defence as they held the Wildcats to 13 points and went into the locker room up 43-35, after a brilliant half-court shot at the buzzer by Amelia Reynolds!
The scoring was even throughout the third quarter, but the Mystics got a lift off their bench from Kelsey Bardsley who scored a key three-pointer, as well as a pair of free throws, to end the quarter with the Mystics up 59-52.
The fourth quarter was tight all the way through as Manchester was only up four points with 23 seconds left. Jones scored on consecutive possessions with a lay-up and then two free throws. The Mystics got two more layups in the remaining seconds to end the game winning by 12 points.
Nottingham was led by Jill Glessner with 22 points and 7 rebounds.
Top Scorers:
Mystics: Georgia Jones 20, Joanna Clayden 19, Rehana Khalil 17
Wildcats: Jill Glessner 22, Hannah Shaw 16, Kate Butters 15
4 December 2007
Mystics Division 2 move on to the Quarter Final in the National Trophy
The Mystics Division 2 team defeated Ellesmere Port 79-38 in the second round of the Women's National Trophy on Sunday afternoon, 25 November, at the Amaechi Basketball Centre. Three players scored in double figures for Manchester, as Paige Livingston led the way with a game high 18 points. In her first Div 2 game, Sandra Guadalix played well and scored 17 points and had 7 rebounds, and Amelia Reynolds chipped in 14 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. Charlotte Stoddart contributed 8 points and 7 rebounds, while Lauren Quigley also had 7 points and five rebounds. The game got off to a slow start, with only a couple baskets scored in the opening minutes of the game, but the Mystics finally got going and went into halftime with a 41-16 lead.
The second half proved to be similar to the first half and, once the Mystics got rolling again, there was no looking back as they coasted into the next round of the National Trophy.
The Mystics will match up against Bury Blue Devils in the next round.
21 November 2007
Mystics Lose Their First League Match
The Mystics suffered their first league loss on Saturday, falling to The City of Sheffield Hatters 84-47. Manchester's offense was stagnant and Sheffield converted on several fast break opportunities, which led to a 38-18 halftime score. The Hatters did not look back in the second half, and the Mystics were never able to get within single digits of their opponents.
Georgia Jones was the only Manchester player who scored double figures, with 22 points, while Stephanie Gandy led Sheffield with 27 points.
The Mystics will travel back to Sheffield again this weekend, and look to perform much better as they look to move on in the National Cup.
Top Scorers:
Mystics: Georgia Jones 22 Charlotte Stoddart 9, Joanna Clayden 5
Hatters : S Gandy 27, S Naylor 23, H Naylor 16
12 November 2007
Mystics off to best ever start!
The Manchester Mystics are off to their best ever start with a 78-69 win over Team Northumbria this weekend. The win puts the Mystics to 2-0 in the league, which is the best start for the women in the Club's history. Once again it was a total team effort for the Mystics as 5 players were in double figures and they received 29 of their points off the bench, to Northumbria's 4 bench points.
Both Rehana Khalil and Lara Maestre had excellent performances for Manchester in their first games back from injury. Khalil was 3/3 from the 3-point line and led the team in scoring, while Maestre provided a spark off the bench with 5 points.
Georgia Jones and Charlotte Stoddart each had a double double for the Mystics, Jones with 11 points and 10 assists and Stoddart with 15 points and 12 rebounds.
J. Colbert led Team Northumbria with 31 points while only two other Northumbria players were in double figures.
Top Scorers:
Mystics: Rehana Khalil 19, Charlotte Stoddart 15, Georgia Jones/Megan Osmer 11
Team Northumbria : J Colbert 31, L Colbert 17, L Hall 12
9 November 2007
Mystics Victorious in First Cup Match
The Mystics easily defeated Bury Blue Devils on Wednesday night, 74-20, in the second round of the Cup. Bury had beaten Stockport in the first round, while the Mystics had a first round bye. Manchester led the game the entire way and never allowed the Blue Devils to score over double figures in any quarter.
Joanna Clayden scored a game high 17 points for the Mystics with Kristie Sheils chipping in 11, and Charlotte Stoddart grabbing a game high 8 rebounds. Manchester held Bury to 22% shooting from the floor and all 11 of the Mystics players saw significant court time, including Rehana Khalil and Lara Maestre, who are both gradually coming back from injury.
With the win, the Mystics will advance to the Quarter Final and meet up with the always-tough City of Sheffield Hatters on November 24th in Sheffield.
The Mystics' next home match is a league game on Sunday November 11th against Team Northumbria at 2pm.
Top Scorers:
Mystics: Joanna Clayden 17, Megan Osmer 12, Kristie Sheils 11
Blue Devils : Sarah Labrow 5, Lauren Wright 5, Michelle Rawlinson 4
2 November 2007
Mystics Kick off New Season with a WIN!
Solent Suns 68 - 75 Manchester Mystics
Manchester Mystics have started the 07-08 season on a high note, with a 75-68 win over the Solent Suns. In the first time that the Mystics have ever won their opening season game, it was a true team effort. Joanna Clayden shone in her Mystics debut scoring a game high 33 points. Georgia Jones continued her brilliant play from the Great Britain games this summer and added 28 points, going 10/10 from the free throw line. Megan Osmer chipped in 8 points whilst grabbing a team high 13 rebounds.
After being down 20-9 at the end of the first quarter, the Mystics fought their way back into the game and went into halftime down only three points at 35-38. Manchester never led during the game until Jones hit a pair of free throws with 1:30 remaining to put the Mystics up by 1. After that, there was no looking back, as a three pointer by Clayden, more free throws by Jones and key rebounds by Charlotte Stoddart sealed the win for the Mystics.
Solent were led by Caroline Turner with 24 points and newcomer Lori Drake with 18 points and 14 rebounds.
The Mystics next game will be on Wednesday November 7th at 8:30pm, against Bury in the Women's National Cup.
Top Scorers:
Mystics: Joanna Clayden 33, Georgia Jones 28, Megan Osmer 8
Suns: Turner 24, Drake 18, Cooper 8
2005/2006 Season Reports
12 April 2006
Mystics Lose After a Fine Season
Rhondda Rebels 96 – 77 Manchester Mystics
This was the second leg of the Division 1 play-offs Semi-Final. The Mystics, having lost narrowly at home, travelled to South Wales, feeling that they had a chance of springing a surprise and beating the powerful home team, who were unbeaten in the regular season.
As they had done at home, the Mystics started strongly, and were down by only one point as the Rebels led at the end of the first quarter by 23-22. Despite the best efforts of the Mystics, led by Kristy Lavin, their Commonwealth games medallist, the Rebels exerted their strength and experience. Gradually they increased their lead to 10 at half-time and 22 at the start of the last quarter. In the end, the Rebels won comfortably, but the Mystics were not disgraced.
Coach Sergio Lara-Bercial should be able to keep most of his young squad together for next season, with maybe one or two new players.
In the two years they have been in Division 1 they have become a much better balanced team, well organised and positive in their approach and have had an excellent season. They should get even better in the future.
Top scorers: Mystics: Kristy Lavin 15, Rehana Khalil 15, Georgia Jones 14
Rebels: Rosalee Mason 29, Gillian d’Hondt 25, Andrea Congreaves 14
3 April 2006
Mystics Defy Rebels' Stars
Manchester Mystics 59 - 63 Rhondda Rebels
In the first of potentially three games between the teams who finished first and fourth in the Women's Division 1, it looked like a lost cause for the Mystics. The Rebels were not only unbeaten in the Division, they had already beaten the Mystics by big margins home and away. Four of their starters had been in the England Bronze Medal squad at the Commonwealth Games.
In the first quarter, the young Mystics were somewhat overawed and let the Rebels gain a 7-point advantage at the break. After that they gained in confidence and their tough defence and strong running made their opponents work very hard for every point. By half-time they had narrowed the gap to 27-28 and all was to play for.
The Welsh girls came out strongly after the break and quickly extended their lead, with Rosalee Mason and Gillian d'Hondt using their height and strength well. For the Mystics, their England team-mate Kristy Lavin was scoring heavily and the ever-dependable Georgia Jones was handling the ball with her usual quiet confidence. Then, with the score at 32-43, Rehana Khalil, who had had a rather nervous game until then, scored two quick three-point attempts and brought the gap to 5 points. This fired up the Mystics and they scented a possible win and from then on the game was very close.
To be fair, the Rebels always looked to have too much firepower for them, but the Manchester women did themselves proud in making such a close game of it. Coach Sergio Lara-Bercial was delighted with his team's performance and was by no means pessimistic for their chances in the away leg, or legs. Next week the Mystics travel away to Cardiff for the first away game. Only if we win this, does the series go to a third game.
Mystics: Kristy Lavin 18, Liga Bergvalde/Rehana Khalil 11, Charlene Ward 5
Rebels: Gillian d'Hondt/Rosalee Mason 17, Missy Lender 10, Sally Kasnica 6
14 February 2006
Mystics Coast to an Easy Win
Manchester Mystics 101 - 38 Stockport Lapwings
For Andrew Beckett's photos of the game: Click here
This was a very one-sided game, effectively over by the end of the first quarter. The Mystics showed little sign of the hard game they had had less than 24 hours before, as they defended energetically and broke quickly against a side who could do everything
Kristy Lavin dominated the game whenever she was on court and Georgia Jones gave a controlled display of point guard play. Despite having plenty of height, the Lapwings gave up far too many rebounds, 54 to the Mystics’ 27. Only D. Cinite, coming off the bench, had respectable numbers and the Mystics took full advantage. By half-time, they were 67-17 ahead and the second half was a formality.
Not surprisingly, they relaxed a little in the third quarter and the visitors cut the deficit by a few points. Verity Peets played better as the game went on, perhaps as her confidence improved and all the players who came off the bench did well. This was the Mystics last home game of the regular fixtures, but they are challenging for a play-off place, which could extend their season.
Top Scorers: Mystics: Kristy Lavin 28, Georgia Jones 16, Verity Pets 16.
Lapwings: D. Cinite 21, O Kavaliauskaite16, CJ Cronshaw 4.
24 January 2006
Double Joy for Mystics
Solent Stars 57 - 72 Manchester Mystics
The Mystics had a long journey to Solent on Sunday after their win on Saturday at ABC. This was abviously going to be a crucial game with Solent 4th in the table and Mystics 5th. Our girls played extremely well against very good opposition and came out on top by 72-57, with young Georgia Jones not only controlling the game from the point guard position, but also leading all scorers with 25 points.
This means that Mystics have now beaten Solent twice, and now are in 4th position in the League table, in a very solid position to clinch a play-off spot. They have a tough run-in, with only one more home game in the regular season, against Stockport on Sunday 12 February at 5:00pm.
Top Scorers: Mystics: Georgia Jones 25, Kristy Lavin 21, Rehana Khalil 12
Stars: Ayres 18; Rarnai 18; Gamman 10
The Under 16 and Under 14 Mystics also had a good weekend with wins for both teams:
| U16 Girls | Manchester |
94
- 50 |
Stockport |
| U14 Girls | Manchester |
45
- 14 |
Bury |
| U14 Girls | Manchester |
53 - 30 |
Barrow |
22 January 2006
Brief Match Report
Manchester Mystics 63 - 43 Brixton Topcats
The Mystics started much more confidently than the Topcats and a long 3 pointer by Rehana Khalil ended the first quarter with a lead for them of 22-9.
Coach Sergio Lara-Bercial was able to rest some of his starters in the second quarter and still managed to keep a comfortable lead to half-time. The Topcats top scorer, Impuri, was proving the main threat, playing energetically under both baskets. Khalil again ended the half with a nice drive to make the score 37- 23. The second half was similar, with the Topcats unable to match the Mystics in overall shooting. Verity Peets had one of her best rebounding games for the Mystics, with 14 and Georgia Jones had 7 assists. Both had 11 points. The Topcats were credited with only 3 assists in total, which tells us something about why they lost.
Mystics: Kristy Lavin 13, Verity Peets 11, Georgia Jones 11
Topcats: P Impuri 20, C Payne 6, A Charles 5
15 January 2006
Mystics Win at a Stroll
Manchester Mystics 82 - 37 London Towers
From the start, the Mystics asserted their authority scoring freely from open play and from the line. The Towers did most things right apart from putting the ball in the basket and this continued throughout the game. Going into the second quarter, the Mystics were 31-12 ahead and moving well. Kristy Lavin was scoring strongly, Verity Peets was working nicely and Georgia Jones was firmly in charge.
With the game beyond the Towers reach by half-time, as they faced a deficit of 22-50, Mystics coach Sergio Lara-Bercial could give his younger, less experienced players plenty of court time and it was they who saw out most of the second half. They all acquitted themselves well and most got on the score sheet.
The Towers tried hard to the end and made plenty of good scoring opportunities without making many count. When the Mystics first five came back on court they sealed what had become an easy win.
Their next home game is on Saturday 21 January against Brixton, with an earlier tip-off time of 4.00 p.m. All are welcome.
Mystics: Liga Bergvalde 21, Kristy Lavin 17, Verity Peets 16
Towers: Gill Ferry 8, Laura Perry 7, Kellie Runciman 7
8 January 2006
Manchester Mystics 60 - 92 Rhondda Rebels
For Andrew Beckett's photos of the game: Click here
Last season, the Mystics were the only team to beat the Rebels in domestic competition, but a repeat of this result never looked likely. Right from the start, the Rebels exerted their strength and experience to unsettle their younger rivals and move into a 10 point lead at the end of the first quarter.
Throughout the game, the Mystics found themselves hurrying their shots from inside and outside and their final percentages were much below their usual standard. The second quarter was the best for the Mystics, as they defended strongly and were well led by Rehana Khalil's example. With the deficit at half time only 13 points, all did not look lost.
In the third quarter, the Rebels turned on the power and almost blew the Mystics away, winning it by 22-7, but the Manchester women kept trying hard and restored their composure towards the end of the game. They were not in any way disgraced and they can look forward to the rest of the season with confidence.
Mystics: Rehana Khalil 18, Liga Bergvalde 13, Verity Peets 10
Rebels: L Koehn 33, R Mason 18, G D'Hondt 13
13 December 2005
HEARTBREAK FOR MYSTICS AFTER LAST SECOND DEFEAT
Nottingham 67 - 66 Mystics
It wasn't to be third time lucky for the young Mystics in the third clash with the Nottingham Wildcats this season.
On the past two occasions, the Mystics had lost to the Midlands outfit by 15 points (League) and 8 points (Cup QF) respectively. However, a refreshed and invigorated Mystics took on the Wildcats with a strong belief that they could turn the tables and upset the Cup Semi-finalists who currently occupy 2nd place in the league.
Proceedings started very well for the Mystics who built an early lead (10-2) through some strong full court defence, huge rebounding efforts from all players and some excellent shooting and inside play by Liga, Verity and Kristy. This trend continued for the rest of the quarter and only the 11 times Nottingham went to the free throw line in this period prevented the Manchester girls from finishing this quarter with a double digit lead. They had to settle for a nice 20-14 score.
In the second quarter, the Mystics continued their good defensive form and also played well through a very aggressive Nottingham zone defence, getting to the foul line on 10 occasions. However an unusual lack of accuracy (5/10) from the foul line, again prevented the Mystics from taking the lead into double digits for a 37-29 half-time tally.
After the interval an energised Nottingham came out of the changing rooms very much determined to change the trend of the game and lead by England pointguard Jo Sargeant, managed to cut down the difference and even edge in front of the Mystics after a 9-0 run (44-42). A huge 3 from Rehana managed to wake the Mystics out of their sleep and from then on an exchange of baskets took the game to a 48-48 at the end of the third.
The Wildcats started the last period strong, getting a 5 point lead. The Mystics however quickly evened things out with a 6-0 run (56-55). At this point the Manchester squad seemed to be in control and able to manage a 4 point lead that they took into the last minute of the game (63-59). Then disaster struck in the shape of a few "youth sins" mistakes. The Wildcats punished the Mystics heavily. After a Wildcat defensive rebound, the Mystics fouled Jessica Kemp under her own basket to give her two free-throws which she converted (63-61). The Manchester girls missed the next shot and a defensive misfortune allowed the "hot-hand" of Jo Sarjant and uncontested 3 point shot to put the Wildcats up by 1 (63-64 with 43 seconds to go). After a time-out the Mystics came back on the attack and with nerves of steel Verity made 2 free throws (65-64 with 30 seconds to go). Nottingham missed their next shot and Rehana grabbed the subsequent rebound and was put on the line for 2. One in, one out (66-64) and, with 12 seconds to go, another lapse in concentration allowed 17 year old Laura Burton a huge 3 pointer which she converted to give Nottingham the final lead (66-67). Still the Mystics had a last shot for the game but unfortunately it didn't drop.
Despite the loss and the unfortunate way in which it happened after a great effort for 39 minutes this team has a lot to be proud of and a great future ahead of them. That was an excellent try girls. Let's bounce back and move it forward!!
Bring on Rhondda!! Saturday 7th January at 7.30pm at the Amaechi Centre
Mystics: Bergvalde 23, Lavin 14, Jones 13
Wildcats: Sarjant 20, Kemp 15, Butters 9
UNDER 14s CONTINUE TO WIN AND IMPROVE THEIR GAME
For the second week in succession the Under 14 Mystics had a National League mini-tournament. After a win versus Barrow and a loss to Stockport 1 last week, the Mystics troupe travelled to Bury to face the She Devils and Stockport 2.
In the first game the young Mystics played a very solid game with some great offence and a very organised defence that saw them walk out victorious 52-25.
In their second game, the Manchester girls faced a depleted Bury squad who, although missing some key players, still put up a good fight. The Mystics showed that the foundation of a great team is being laid down with some very good ball movement, work ethic and commitment to training.
Well done girls, the future is yours!!
Mystics Players: Becky, Rosie, Tracey, Amelia W, Rowena, Amelia R, Nicolette, Esi, Anjia, Natalie, Kristel, Aimee and Ashley
6 December 2005
Mystics keep up their good run!!
Manchester Mystics 77 - 64 London Acers
For Andrew Beckett's photos of the game: Click here
The Mystics entertained a very reinvigorated London Heathrow Acers team on Saturday night at the Amaechi Centre.
Coach Sergio was happy to have Kristy Lavin back after 4 weeks of absence due to a stress fracture on one of her toes. All the girls were also very supportive of her in her first game back and all contributed to ease her way back into the squad and to full fitness as soon as possible. Unfortunately, Marta Gonzalez sprained her ankle after only 38 seconds on court and will be out for a few games. Marta, everyone is thinking of you and wishing you well.
The game opened with the team scoring two 3 pointers by Liga and Rehana who are continuing their good run of shooting form. After that the battle settled into an exchange of baskets between the two teams with Lear and Abbott dominating the paint at both ends for the Acers and getting many easy points in high percentage areas.
A series of defensive changes and a more spirited second quarter saw the Mystics build up a 9 point lead going into half time. This lead was extended to 16 points in the third quarter through some great attacking play by Liga and Verity, well supported by all the Mystics guards.
The Acers attempted a comeback in the last quarter when they got back to within 7 points. Coach Sergio called a time out to calm everyone's nerves and after that the Mystics regained their composure to finish strongly 77-64.
Next Sunday, the Mystics travel to Nottingham for what should be a very entertaining game and a good chance for the girls to clinch a play-off spot if the result goes their way.
Next home game will take place on January 7th at 7.30 versus undefeated Rhondda Rebels. Remember they were also undefeated when they last came to the ABC, but went away with their only loss of the season... We hope to see you there supporting your team!!
Mystics: Liga Bergvalde (27 points and 10 rebounds), Verity Peets (16 points and 6 rebounds), Georgia Jones (13 points and 4 assists)
Acers: Abbott 29, Lear 17, Cloke 11
22 November 2005
Manchester Mystics 85 - 20 Doncaster Panthers
For Andrew Beckett's photos of the game: Click here
14 November 2005
MYSTICS SURVIVE TO BRING WIN HOME
STOCKPORT LAPWINGS 92 - 97 MANCHESTER MYSTICS
Forget winning or losing, the Greater Manchester derby game between the Mystics and Stockport was a testament to how the women's game can be as entertaining and spectacular as the men's. The two squads provided the most exciting game of the year so far and possibly one of the most enticing and attractive clashes of recent English basketball history.
Stockport presented a very different and strengthened squad to last season's with 4 new foreign imports amongst their ranks. On their part, the Mystics, still missing Kristy Lavin, Louise Barnes and Molly Lafferty and, with Jennie Fields having dropped out due to her University commitments, resorted to their junior players to complete an already very young squad. All in all, 5 out of 9 players in the squad for this game are still eligible to play Junior basketball.
The Lapwings dominated the first few minutes of the game with some great shooting from outside the arc by Lithuanian Orinta and Canadian Dickenson, with good post work and offensive rebounding by Latvian Cinite. This strong start allowed them to take a 7 point lead which the Mystics managed to answer through Rehana's very accurate 3 pointers and Verity's and Liga's hard work inside.
From this point on, the game became an extraordinary exchange of baskets between the two teams with all players in both teams contributing highly. On the Mystics side, special mention should go to Natalie McKenley who played very strong defence and also contributed with 6 crucial points at this stage to reach the half-time mark 48-47 to the Lapwings.
After the break, the dynamics of the game didn't change and Stockport kept leading the way, their lead moving between 1 and 7 points at various stages of the second half. At this point, the Mystics chances were severely damaged by both Rehana and Verity picking up their 4th personal foul. The young Mystics bench however, came to the rescue again with Charlotte Stoddart, Jamie Curtis and Emma Macready giving the team plenty of good minutes.
With 6 minutes to go the Mystics still found themselves trailing by 7. It was then that magically the Mystics Pandora's Box got open by threes from Georgia, Rehana and Liga and a courageous and commanding inside play demonstration by Verity Peets. All of a sudden, with 1' 30" to go the Mystics were leading by 5 points, to everyone's astonishment. The girls played this last 90 seconds smartly and held their own from the free throw line to walk away victorious 97-92.
Bring it on!!!
Mystics: Rehana Khalil 22, Verity Peets 21, Liga Bergvalde 18. Team 3pt Shooting 9/18 (50%) Team Free Throw Shooting 22/26 (85%)
Stockport: Cinite 26, Kavaliauskite 23, Lavilla 15
7 November 2005
YOUNG MYSTICS BRAVE IN DEFEAT
Sunday Cup game: Nottingham Wildcats 64 - 56 Manchester Mystics
A real tough weekend for the ever-younger Mystics, in the absence of many main line players such as Kristy Lavin, Jennie Fields, Louise Barnes and also Natalie McKenley on Sunday. It was always going to be a real tough battle against two of the strongest teams in the Division (Sheffield and Nottingham) but overall, the girls and coaching staff can be really proud of their competitiveness during the weekend and extremely pleased with how every player in the squad dug deep to find that extra bit of game they could use to make up for the shortage of players.
Saturday night at the Amaechi Centre saw a great first half from the Mystics leading 31-26 at half-time through a strong defence and some great game direction from Rehana and Georgia, and inspired shooting from Liga Bergvalde who really blossomed over the weekend into the major force we always knew she could be. Unfortunately, the Mystics machine ran out of steam in the second half, with Sheffield stepping up their game led by England guards Lisa Hutchinson and Katie Crowley. Despite a poor offensive 3rd quarter, the Mystics were still in with a chance at the end of the third when they trailed by 7 points. Fatigue caught up with the team and, in the end, Sheffield ran away with it, 67-49. Liga top-scored with 27 (including 5 three pointers) while Georgia and Rehana contributed with 9 and 8 points respectively.
Sunday took the Mystics to the Quarter Finals of the Cup at Nottingham's Jesse Boot Arena. After a 16-point defeat to the Wildcats in the opening game of the season the Mystics approached the game in a much more confident way, despite the missing players and the loss to Sheffield less than 24 hours before.
A closely-fought battle throughout the entire game which saw the Mystics move between +2 and -5 at various stages in what to date might have been the best team-effort this year. Unfortunately, in another twist of fortune, Molly Lafferty sprained her ankle badly early in the second quarter. However, both Jamie Curtis (age 17) and Charlotte Stoddart (age 15) came off the bench to make outstanding contributions with strong defensive and rebounding efforts and a swift 9 points combined between the two youngsters.
The always on-the-limit defensive pressure from Nottingham took its toll on our young guards and despite playing a very good game the Wildcats took an 11 point lead in the 4th quarter they would never surrender. A last brave effort from the girls brought the game within 5 points in the last minute but Nottingham held their own from the free throw line to finish victorious 64-56.
All in all, a great weekend for learning and discovering that everyone in this team has something to offer against even the toughest of opponents.
Well done and move on!!!
6 November 2005
Manchester Mystics 49 - 67 Sheffield Hatters
For Andrew Beckett's photos of the game: Click here
The Mystics started confidently, defending strongly and moving the ball nicely and ended the first quarter 15-11 in front. It was a similar story in the second, with Liga Bergvalde leading the team well with some good shooting. The Hatters drew level at one stage, but two 3 pointers from Bergvalde meant the Mystics took a 5 point lead to the interval.
It was a different story in the second half. Gradually, the Hatters asserted their strength and experience, controlling the boards and shooting well. Lisa Hutchinson finished the game with 18 rebounds and Stephanie Gandy shot 21 points and had 9 rebounds. By threequarter time they had a 7 point lead and in the last quarter, the Mystics held them to a few points until the last 5 minutes.
The Mystics are a new team and are improving all the time and they will take some valuable lessons from this loss.
Mystics: Liga Bergvalde 27, Georgia Jones 9, Rehana Khalil 8
Hatters: Stephanie Gandy 21, Katie Crowley 13, Karolina Zagorna 10
16 October 2005
Manchester Mystics 69 - 53 Solent Stars
For Andrew Beckett's photos of the game: Click here
11 October 2005
Mystics Come Out on Top
Brixton Topcats 46 - 56 Manchester Mystics (League)
Manchester Mystics 89 - 45 Team Northumbria (Cup Round 2)
A short Mystics squad, plagued by injuries and sickness, travelled to Battersea Youth Centre with only one objective in mind after last week's disastrous 7 and a half hours trip to Crystal Palace, which ended with no game. The team arrived there at 4pm for a 6pm tip-off and decisively went for a nice stroll down the Thames.
The game was very far from a stroll down the river. A very strong and rugged Brixton squad made life very hard for the young Mystics in every inch of the basketball court. A great defensive display from the whole Manchester squad kept the Topcats to a low 46 score which allowed the Mystics to walk out triumphant 56-46. This was a very important win since, as Solent found out 2 weeks ago when they lost 47-43 at Brixton, this end of the woods is a real tough place to play at.
England guard, Kristy Lavin, top scored for the Mystics with 17 points, while Rehana Khalil added 16 including 3 three-pointers at vital times in the game. Liga Bergvalde made a big impact on the boards and also contributed 11 points. Other strong performers on the night were Verity Peets, Georgia Jones, Molly Lafferty and Jennie Fields who all contributed massively to win the game.
After returning close to 2am on Sunday morning, the girls were back in action on Sunday afternoon for the second round of the Women's National Cup against Northumbria Tyne and Wear. The Mystics presented a very young squad with 3 more junior players to add to the usual suspects Georgia and Verity. The team was quickly in charge of affairs storming to a 29-16 lead in the first quarter with some good defensive play and a lighting quick fastbreak.
The Manchester girls quickly extended the lead when they outscored Northumbria 21-7 in the second quarter, with already strong contributions from Under 16 players Siobhan Collins, Charlotte Stoddart who scored a 3 pointer seconds after coming off the bench and Under 18 player Jessica Tensel who showed great defensive work ethic and team spirit.
In the end the Mystics ran away to an 89-45 victory that sees them into the next round of the cup against Nottingham on 6th November. The girls will be up for that one. Verity Peets and Liga Bergvalde got 18 points and 7 rebounds apiece, while Kristy added 17 and 11 boards. However another strong team performance that yielded 85% success from the free throw line and a total 19 assists.This was a great team performance.
Next week, another tough game against Solent, who you will remember beat the Mystics in the quarter final play-off last year in overtime. We will need all the support we can get on the night: Saturday 15th October 7.30 tip-off at the Amaechi Centre in Whalley Range. All tickets £1
26 September 2005
Mystics Lose Close Game
Manchester Mystics 64 - 79 Nottingham Wildcats
For Andrew Beckett's photos of the game: Click here
This was a closer game than the final score suggests. It was only in the last quarter that the Wildcats used their height, strength and experience to draw away from a young Mystics team who had held their opponents for most of the game.
Both teams were well organised in attack and defence, with some of the Mystics showing the benefits of a summer spent in hard practice. Rehana Khalil was almost unrecognisable from last season, shooting and moving the ball much more confidently. She had 8 and Georgia Jones had 7 rebounds, not bad for two guards. Newcomer Liga Bergvalde looked competent but not outstanding and Kristy Lavin had a sound game on her return to Manchester.
For the Wildcats, Jessica Kemp had an excellent game, the game's best rebounder and joint top scorer, but it was a fine team effort and the Mystics did well to give them such a tough game. On the evidence of this game, the Mystics should do well in this league, as their players grow in strength and experience.
Mystics: Rehana Khalil 15, Kristy Lavin 14, Liga Bergvalde 14
Wildcats: Emma Pass 22, Jessica emp 22, Kate Butters 15
4 April 2005
Mystics Cruise to an Easy Win
Manchester Mystics 74 - 51 Spelthorne Acers
In their last game of the regular season, the Mystics were gifted an easy win by the Londoners. Both teams found it hard to score from open play, but the Acers could find only 4 points in the first quarter to the Mystics' 23. Jade Lucas had gone to bench after a few minutes on 2 fouls and Deanna Smith had done most of the scoring. When Jade did return, she played another 15 minutes without giving away another foul and scored 13 points.
From then on, the game was quite even in terms of scoring, but the Mystics were always in control. The Acers were well organised and defended well, but they never got nearer than 17 points behind. At half-time, they trailed by 19-39 and by 54-31 at the end of the third quarter. With both teams scoring 20 points in the last session, the final score reflected the Acers' disastrous start.
Playing without Rehana Khalil and Julia Demirer, the Mystics again depended on Deanna Smith for her 23 points and her 13 rebounds and 7 assists, but all the team played with great spirit. Charlene Ward was very effective under the baskets, especially in the latter stages of the game and ended with 13 points and 9 rebounds.
Coming on early for Lucas and having plenty of minutes, Georgia Jones was her usual safe pair of hands and scored 7 points and took 5 rebounds. Overall, this was a pleasing performance and should give the Mystics confidence for the first round of the play-offs. Since they finished 5th in the league, they have to travel to Solent this weekend and they can expect no favours there.
Mystics: Deanna Smith: 23 Jade Lucas: 13 Charlene Ward: 13 Georgia Jones: 7 Natalie McKinley: 6
Acers: C. Ayres: 18 B. Lear:15 R. Murphy: 7
21 March 2005
Mystics Subdue Rebels
Manchester Mystics 87 - 68 Rhondda Rebels
This was a game about pride and determination, since the result hardly affected the end of season standings of the two teams. The Rebels, a squad of talented imports, who had beaten all domestic opposition this season and carried the Welsh flag into European competition, were expected to walk all over their young opponents.
After four minutes the score was 3 each, but then the Mystics went on a run and got a 9 point lead which they were never to lose. Most of the scoring had been done by Deanna Smith, but the Mystics guards were collecting fouls at an alarming rate.
Led by Silvia Gottardi and using the height and skill of Missy Lender, the Rebels constantly threatened to take over the game, but each time they scored, the Mystics countered at once, usually through Smith, who had an astonishing game, ending with 44 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists. Julia Demirer, now fitting in better with her teammates, Charlene Ward and Verity Peets worked well under both baskets and the Mystics were 50-37 to the good at half-time.
Bringing only 7 players and using only 6, the Rebels showed little sign of fatigue in the second half, winning the third quarter 17-14, but the Mystics started the last quarter still 10 points ahead. It was a tense time for them and their coach, Sergio Lara-Bercial, when, with 8 minutes still to go, he had four of his team on 4 fouls. But his young players did him proud. Young Georgia Jones did an excellent job bringing the ball up, moving it well and keeping possession when it mattered, even though she did not figure much in the stats and all the others played strong defence.
With 8 minutes to go, an extremely long 3 from Smith seemed to finish off any serious resistance from Rhonnda and the Mystics ran out comfortable winners. This clear victory over such a strong team sends out a disturbing message to the Mystics' opponents in the play-offs. Their last regular season game is at home on Saturday 2nd April. Tip-off is at 7.30 p.m. and the visitors are Spelthorne. All are welcome.
Mystics: Deanna Smith: 44, Charlene Ward: 16, Julia Demirer: 13
Rhondda: Missy Lender: 24, Latoya Kincaid: 17, Silvia Gottardi: 14
8 March 2005
One-Sided Mystics Victory
Manchester Mystics 97 - 34 Doncaster Panthers
Both these teams were similar, with very young players and some import assistance, but their performance was quite different on the night. The Panthers managed only one basket from open play in the first quarter, when the Doncaster coaches chose not to play Helen Naylor. When she came on, the Mystics were 15-4 ahead and coasting.
Her presence immediately transformed the game and the second quarter was a close- run thing. Despite strong Mystics defence and some sparkling scoring from Jade Lucas and Deanna Smith, the Panthers got within 10 points, before falling behind again, to finish the half 22-36 down.
The Mystics started the second half strongly and, again mainly in Naylor's absence, built up an unassailable lead of 63-29 going into the last quarter.
Coach Sergio Lara-Bercial kept Deanna Smith and Julia Demirer on the bench for the rest of the game and his young side ran furiously at a now dispirited Doncaster team, scoring at will and preventing their opponents from even taking shots. They scored 34 points in the last quarter, exactly the same number as the Panthers had managed in the whole game. The Mystics had all played well and all had 13 minutes or more, but there will be sterner tests before the end of the season, notably when they entertain high-flyers Rhondda in their next home game.
This is on Sunday, 20th March at the Amaechi Basketball Centre. Tip-off is at 5.00p.m. and all are welcome.
Mystics: Deanna Smith: 24, Jade Lucas: 16, Verity Peets: 13, Rehana Khalil: 12, Julia Demirer: 9, Charlene Ward: 8, Natalie McKinley: 7.
1 March 2005
Mystics lose a BIG battle but hopes are still intact for Play-Offs
Solent Stars are currently the tallest team in the division with up to four players standing at 6'2" or over. In an attempt to counter this height advantage and the 3-2 zone defence played by the Stars, the Mystics deployed an up-tempo game which seemed to pay dividends in the first quarter, when the Manchester team got a 17-7 lead through a hard working full court press. However, some sloppy play allowed Solent an easy comeback to end the quarter 19-17 to the Mystics.
Our girls kept working hard but, when the well-drilled Solent team started to find their inside players, the tables turned, and Solent pulled away to end the first half up by ten points (39-29).
The Mystics regained their good shooting form at the beginning of the 3rd quarter, getting to within four points of the Stars, with some good inside play from Verity Peets and inspired shooting from Deanna Smith.
Solent Stars came back in style though, with very accurate outside shooting and a tough defence. After a great fight in this 3rd quarter, the Mystics found themselves still trailing by 11 points.
The start of the final period saw the Mystics make an effort to cut the lead to just 7 points before Solent pulled away yet again, to win the game by 73-62.
All in all, a very exciting game where the girls had a good chance to learn a few tricks of the trade. Congratulations to Solent on a great performance.
The Mystics are in action again this weekend at ABC on Sunday 6 March, when they will play Doncaster at 5:00pm. All are welcome.
13 February 2005
Mystics Win at a Stroll
Manchester Mystics 90 - 47 Brixton Lady Topcats
The Topcats arrived late and with a weakened team and never really got into this game. To their credit, they kept going for all four quarters, but they were simply outclassed, especially in shooting.
The main interest for the home fans was how the Mystics new player, Julia Demirer, would fit into coach Sergio Lara-Bercial's plans. The answer was - very well, as she showed her strengths in every part of the court. Her statistics of 21 points and 12 rebounds were most impressive in her first game and she fitted in well in defence and offence.
Deanna Smith was again the main motivator of the team. This time her 3 from 7 from 3 point range added to her team's superiority. All the rest of the Mystics had plenty of court time and all contributed well. For the Topcats, A. Batimba was outstanding, with 16 points.
The Mystics keep their 4th position in the league, but their remaining fixtures will be tough. Their next home game is against Doncaster on Sunday, 6th March at the Amaechi Basketball Centre. Tip-off 5.00p.m.
Mystics: Deanna Smith: 26, Julia Demirer: 21, Charlene Ward: 10, Jade Lucas: 9, Jenny Fields: 8, Rehana Khalil: 8
8 February 2005
Reality Check for Mystics
Rhondda 102 - 74 Manchester Mystics
The Mystics travelled to Rhondda hoping to give the undefeated Welsh Squad a good run for their money. Although the final score 102-74 reflects the world that separates both squads, the Mystics played with a lot of spirit and never gave up on a very tough match. On paper, both squads could not be more different.
Rhondda's legion of imports (up to 6) made their experience count at every level of the game, outplaying the young Mystics in every department apart from that of courage and determination. Deanna Smith led the team, not only as far as scoring goes, but also ensuring that the team kept working and developing with every play of the game.
The Mystics opened the game with some very good team play that kept them in contention (19-14 to Rhondda) but with about a minute to go, a couple of quick turnovers saw Rhondda extend that lead to 25-15 at the end of the quarter. A bad start to the second quarter meant that Rhondda extended that lead going into half-time up by 23 points (33-56).
However, the second half saw a much more focused Mystics team. The girls made it a lot harder for the Welsh squad to find the basket (46 for the half) and also improved on their own scoring (41 for the last 2 quarters). Overall, Rhondda's control of the boards at both ends, the ease with which they ran their fast break, and soft turnovers were the biggest factors in this defeat. A lot to learn from this game, but a lot of positives to take from it as well.
Just keep swimming...
Sergio Lara-Bercial
Mystics: Deanna Smith: 34, Verity Peets: 14
Rhondda: Robert: 33, Gottardi: 25
30 January 2005
Mystics Double Delight
Manchester Mystics 65 - 55 PAWS London Capitals
This was a tense and intriguing game. The Mystics had beaten their opponents comfortably in November and their first double victory of the Div. 1 season was on the cards. But their star player, Deanna Smith, was carrying an injury, which might have kept her out of the game. She warmed up but did not start. Without her, her young team-mates gave an excellent account of themselves, defending strongly and scoring steadily. The score kept remarkably close throughout. From the free throw line, the Mystics again distinguished themselves, hitting 68% against a mere 33% by the Capitals and they also comfortably out-rebounded them.
At half-time the scores were level at 33-33, with the Mystics having weathered some real pressure, being 6 points down at one stage.
It had been an all round team effort, with Verity Peets catching the eye with sound work under the baskets and Jade Lucas moving the ball quickly and well and, in the third quarter, the game continued in the same way, with B. Dang and A. Shaaban causing the Mystics problems at each end.
With a minute to go in the third quarter, Mystics coach, Sergio Lara-Bercial, brought on Deanna Smith, confident she could secure the win. The quarter ended 47-45 to the London women.
Smith opened the last quarter brightly and then the game ground to a surprising halt. For 4 minutes neither side could score, the scores were level, 54-54, with 2 minutes to go and it looked as if Lara-Bercial's gamble had failed. But, using all her skill and experience, Smith orchestrated the last 2 minutes and the Mystics scored 11 points against 1 in reply. She ended with the amazing figures of 13 points and 9 rebounds in 11 minutes and the coach knew he had played it just right. The Mystics now have two very difficult away games and return to the Amaechi Basketball Centre on Saturday, 12th February to play Brixton.
Mystics: Verity Peets: 16 Deanna Smith: 13 Charlene Ward: 10 Jade Lucas: 10
PAWS: B.Dang: 17 A. Shaaban: 12 A. Delextrat: 12
24 January 2005
Mystics Proud in Defeat
Manchester Mystic 70 - 83 Nottingham Wildcats
For Tom Platt's pictures of this game click here
For Gu's pictures of this game click here
The Mystics started confidently and moved steadily into a 16-6 lead after 8 minutes. In the few seconds when Deanna Smith was rested, the Wildcats made the score 16-13 by the end of the quarter.
After the break, the Nottingham scoring machine got into gear and from then on their shooting from open play, at 58%, was hard to beat. The Mystics matched them in vigorous defence and rebounding, but by half-time, were 38-35 down.
After half-time, Georgia Jones was available, having taken part in an excellent Under 18 Cup win at Ellesmere Port, and gave the team a useful option. The pattern was the same in the third quarter, with the only difference between the teams the open field shooting. The Wildcats crept steadily ahead, to go into the last quarter 59-50 in front. In the first minute of the last quarter, disaster struck the Mystics. Their talismanic top scorer, Deanna Smith, was fouled, fell awkwardly and had to leave the game with an ankle injury. Far from giving up, the rest of the team stepped up, led by a dynamic performance by young Verity Peets and Jade Lucas. They got the Mystics back to within 7 points with 2 minutes to go and Georgia Jones and Jade Lucas made 6 free throws in the last minute, but the Wildcats kept going and ran out comfortable winners. The Mystics had lost, but had done their reputation no harm at all. Their next home game is against Brixton on the 12th February at 5.pm.
Mystics: Verity Peets: 15 Jade Lucas: 15 Deanna Smith: 11 Charlene Ward: 11
11 January 2005
Mystics Win Again on the Road
Spelthorne Acers 73 - 81 Manchester Mystics
The Mystics travelled down to London to meet the fancied Acers on Saturday, but came away with a well-deserved win that keeps them in contention for a play-off place. They moved into a narrow lead in the first quarter and managed to hold on to it for the rest of the game. When the Londoners forsook their usual zone defence and played a vigorous full-court press, the young Mystics kept their composure and their lead. Coach Sergio Lara-Bercial was pleased with his team's performance against a taller and more experienced opponent. It was a good all-round effort, but Deanna Smith contributed a game-high 31 points, having played her usual unselfish game.
Two of the team, Verity Peets and Jamie Curtis, had just returned from an Under 18 international tournament, where they had represented England, with Lara-Bercial as the new coach of this team.
Mystics: Deanna Smith 31, Charlene Ward 16, Verity Peets 14, Jade Lucas 12
13 December 2004
Mystics Surge to Victory
Manchester Mystics 87 - 78 Solent Stars
Unbeaten in the League this season, the Stars started full of confidence, looking fit, determined and well organised. Against a hesitant Manchester team, who looked as if they were still feeling the effects of last week's disappointing loss, they moved smoothly into a lead of 26-13 after 8 minutes. Their centre, Zsussa Tarnai, Was proving difficult to stop, as she did for all the game and the Stars definitely looked in control of the boards. Then, after coach Lara-Bercial had called a crucial time-out, the Mystics started to fight back.
Good work by Verity Peets and Deanna Smith reduced the deficit to 8 points by the end of the quarter. Significantly, the Stars did not score in the last 3 minutes of the quarter.
As the Mystics got into their normal hard running, close marking game, they pegged the Stars back, negating their height advantage by constant hustling. Jade Lucas, who had an excellent all-round game, scored a long 3 pointer with just 20 seconds of the half left. By half-time the deficit was just one point at 45-46.
The Mystics started the second half brightly and moved into a small lead. Then the Stars last their influential guard, Maria Tobar, with what looked like a nosebleed and they lost some of their cohesion. The Mystics were now driving to the basket, getting the fouls and scoring from the line. This also meant that the Stars were getting into foul trouble and this had a vital effect on the outcome of the game. By the end of the third quarter, the Mystics had fought their way into a 2-point lead, but the Stars were still looking confident. Oddly enough, they were out-rebounded in the game as a whole by 56-54.
By the time Tobar was back on court, with 6 minutes to go, the Stars had a 7-point lead and looked to be heading for the win they clearly expected. But the constant hustling by their young opponents was getting to them and, after some dynamic moves, especially from Deanna Smith and Jade Lucas, the Mystics managed to turn a 7-point deficit into 74-74 in the last minute of normal time.
It was now that the Stars' foul trouble hit them. Some of their strongest players could only sit on the bench and watch, as the Mystics outscored their team 13-4 in the 5 minutes of overtime. One reason for their victory was their much improved (over last week) free throws. Only coincidence, but their margin of victory was exactly the same as their free throw superiority, 9 points. Despite some very close marking, Deanna Smith again had great numbers, 35 points, 14 rebounds and 4 assists. But it had been a team effort and a good reward for a huge amount of hard practice. The Stars showed they have the firepower to worry any team and they will continue to win games, but it was the Mystics' night.
Mystics: Deanna Smith: 35, Jade Lucas: 18, Verity Peets: 15
5 December 2004
No Disgrace in Defeat for Mystics
Manchester Mystics 55 - 78 Sheffield Hatters
This was always going to be a real test for the young Mystics team. The Hatters have been a top team in the top Division of English women's basketball for some years, with a powerful and very experienced squad. But the Mystics passed the test by competing fiercely throughout and still being well in contention with one quarter to go.
Opening brightly, the Mystics went into an early lead, but the Hatters soon had their inside game working, using their size and experience to control their own basket and keeping the ball well. Only two good scores by Deanna Smith and Jamie Curtis brought the Mystics back into 13-17 contention at the end of the quarter.
In the second quarter, the Hatters forged ahead, helped by some nervous shooting by the Mystics, often forced into rushed shots with the seconds running down. Their energetic defence was restricting the Hatters' score however, but they reached half-time 25-37 down.
Even the Mystics' free throw percentage had been much lower than usual, at 40%, but it improved to 70% in the second, as they finally got their game under way, winning the third quarter 18-13. Jade Lucas started to shoot well and Deanna Smith survived multiple marking to keep the Mystics in the game. She fought valiantly to help her teammates, until fouled out very near the end. Verity Peets was the game's top rebounder, with 13, but her shooting let her down. All the team tried hard and the main difference in the two teams was in shooting accuracy.
In the last quarter, the Hatters' superior strength and experience told, but the Mystics never gave up. Rehana Khalil summed up the Mystics' spirit when she rounded off the match with a long three right on the buzzer. All the team had played well. They were fit, organised and determined and it is clear that they can only get better. The home fans in the large crowd were not disappointed by the result. On the contrary, they were delighted to see their young team competing so well at this level. Their next game is on Saturday, 11th December, at the Amaechi Centre. Tip-off 7.30 p.m. Their opponents are Solent Stars.
Mystics: Deanna Smith: 17, Jade Lucas: 13, Charlene Ward: 6
Hatters: Andrea Kagie: 25, Leandra Little/Katie Crowley: 10
30 November 2004
Mystics Continue Winning Run
Brixton 70 - 89 Manchester Mystics
This game did not start too well for the Mystics. Heavy traffic in London meant their coach arrived at the venue a mere 15 minutes before tip-off time. In spite of this, they started well, but the opposition coach called an early time-out and the Londoners at once tightened up their game and were soon 5 points ahead of the Mystics. But, after a technical foul was called on the Brixton coach, his team were shaken and the Mystics gained in confidence. They forged ahead and they were 9 points in front at half-time.
The young Manchester team withstood the pressure of a noisy, hostile crowd and they all played well. Coaches often say that free throws win games and on this occasion the Mystics shot 26 of 31 from the line, or 84%, the sign of long hours spent profitably in the gym. Despite being closely marked all game, Deanna Smith still managed to score 37 points and led the team brilliantly. The whole squad of 12 players had court time and contributed to the win.
The Mystics have now won all their League games and are near the top of the table. This is a good start, but the harder League challenges start this weekend, when the opponents are Sheffield Hatters.
Mystics: Deanna Smith: 37, Jade Lucas: 18
22 November 2004
Overwhelming Win for Mystics
Manchester Mystics 87 - 40 Stockport Lapwings
Both these teams were in last year's Division 2 and have won the right to be in Division 1 this season. In previous meetings this year, the Lapwings won the first fairly easily and just lost the second. Such is the improvement the Mystics have made, that at times their superiority in this game was embarrassing. They opened quickly and confidently, and by the time the Lapwings scored first, in the 6th minute, they had 19 points on the board. Their new Australian star, Deanna Smith, was everywhere, rebounding, scoring from inside and out and feeding the ball to her team-mates. Charlene Ward was one beneficiary of her unselfish play, as was Verity Peets and the whole team played tough defence.
The Mystics ended the first half 54-19 in front and the Stockport camp probably thought it could not get any worse, but it did. In the third quarter, their team could manage only 2 points in reply to 25 by the Mystics and the game was well and truly over. Apart from their shooting in open play, the Lapwings were not playing too badly and they never gave up, but for them it was just one of those games when nothing goes right.
When Sergio Lara-Bercial, the Mystics coach, put his bench on for the last quarter, there was some relief for the Lapwings and they scored 17 points to the Mystics' 8. These came mainly from the free throw line, with Janka Deckerova prominent. For the Mystics, Smith finished with 31 points, 10 rebounds and 9 assists, excellent numbers in any class of basketball, with only 30 minutes on court and without a hint of selfish play. The Lapwings will recover from this shock defeat and, on the evidence of this game, the basketball fans of the Manchester area should get down to the Amaechi Basketball Centre for a real treat. The next home game there is this Saturday, when the Magic entertain the Reading Rockets at 7.30 p.m. On Dec. 4th, the Mystics play the Sheffield Hatters at home. Recently they lost to them narrowly in Sheffield, so it should be a thriller.
Mystics: Deanna Smith: 31, Charlene Ward: 22, Verity Peets: 11
16 November 2004
Mystics Stamp on Paws
PAWS London: 61 - 90 Manchester Mystics
For their first Division 1 National League game, the Mystics travelled to London at the weekend, not really knowing what to expect at the Capital City Academy, where they were to play another newly promoted squad, PAWS London.
They had to contend with a long journey, a hostile crowd and a new level of competition, but they passed all the tests with flying colours. A very focussed team effort saw the Mystics take an early lead through a very hardworking full-court press. This defensive intensity provoked many errors by the London side and gave the Mystics the chance to run the floor and get some quick scores on the break.
After the Mystics coach changed their defence to a 2-1-2 zone, the Mystics adapted well and moved the ball well to go in at half-time 44-26 ahead.
From then on, the Mystics cruised to a comfortable win, with Deanna Smith again posting massive numbers with 40 points in the game, backed by a very creditable 21 by Verity Peets. But it had been an excellent all-round team effort which brought them a resounding victory on their first long road trip in the top flight. Their next home game is on Saturday, 20th November at the Amaechi Basketball Centre, tip-off 7.30. A Division 1 League game, their opponents are Stockport Lapwings and all are welcome.
Mystics: Deanna Smith: 40, Verity Peets: 21, Jade Lucas/Jenny Fields: 7
9 November 2004
Bright Start For Mystics
Sheffield Hatters 87 - 75 Manchester Mystics
Starting with a group of young players, the Manchester Mystics entered the EBL National Women's League last season, and had a good first season in the 2nd Division. In the fight to make the 1st Division this autumn, they have been successful and are now in the highest women's league. To get this far is a great achievement, but now they have to consolidate their position. At the weekend they were drawn against Sheffield Hatters in the Quarter Final of the National Cup, as hard a test as they could have had.
Their opponents are one of the top teams in the country. Last season they won the League Play-off, and 12 months ago beat the Mystics by 60 points. 4 weeks ago the gap was 36 points. And yet this was a game the Mystics came very near to winning. That is the scale of the improvement this team, average age 18.4, has made.
After a fairly even first half, the Mystics made some careless mistakes in a poor third quarter, which left them 19 points down at one time. But they played tough defence and reduced the gap to 5 points by the end of the quarter. With three junior players on court for much of the game, coach Sergio Lara-Bercial was delighted with his team's performance, especially in the last few minutes of the game, as their youth and fitness told in their favour.
With 3 minutes to go, the Hatters were in front by only 3 points, but experience told, as they made their free throws to win by a clear margin. Newcomer Deanna Smith was the star of the game for the Mystics, with an astonishing 41 points and an excellent all-round game.
Supporters will be able to watch this exciting young team on Saturday, 20th Nov. at the Amaechi Basketball Centre, when their opponents are local rivals Stockport Lapwings. Tip-off is 7.30 p.m. and all are welcome.
Mystics: Deanna Smith 42, Georgia Jones 11, Jenny Fields 7.
31 October 2004
Manchester Mystics 90 - 32 Black Country Bears
A magnificent performance on Saturday evening by the Mystics has gained entry to Women's Division 1 basketball for the first time ever in Manchester. Aussie star, Deanna Smith, led all scorers with 37 points as the Mystics demolished the Black Country Bears by 90 - 32.
The Mystics will now lock horns with all the big-time Clubs from Division 1. A combination of the rapidly improving youngsters and International star Deanna, will make the Mystics a force to be reckoned with and any team coming to ABC will know they have a real fight on their hands.
The final line-up of Division 1 Women' teams is:
| Manchester Mystics | Brixton Topcats |
| Stockport Lapwings | Solent Stars |
| Sheffield Hatters | Rhondda Rebels |
| Doncaster Panthers | Paws London Capitals |
| Nottingham Wildcats | Spelthorne Acers |
24 October 2004
Mystics in Play-offs
This Saturday sees the Manchester Mystics make their bid to be part of Division 1 of the Women's National League. Having finished in 3rd place in the Northern Section of the qualifying leagues, they meet the team who were 3rd in the Midlands section, the Black Country Bears. If they win, they are in Division 1.
Tip-off is at 7.30 p.m. and there is a nominal entrance fee at the Amaechi Basketball Centre.
19 October 2004
New Star Shines for Mystics
Manchester Mystics won two crucial games over the weekend. The women's team of the Manchester Club are playing in the Senior National League Division 1/2 and are desperately keen to obtain Division 1 status once the cut is made. Their win, 76-67 against Northumbria Tyne and Wear on Saturday means they now play the team which finished 3rd in the Midlands section and a win will ensure Div.1 status for the rest of the season. They were greatly helped on Saturday by their new Australian signing Deanna Smith, who scored 34 points. Deanna has come from playing with Adelaide Lightning in the top Australian women's league and was on the fringes of selection for the national team which won the silver medal at the Olympics this year.
She showed her excellent all-round skills to the home fans on Sunday evening, when she led the Mystics to another win, this time against local rivals, Stockport Lapwings, in a Cup game. She scored 32 points in the 63-58 victory.
Coach Sergio Lara-Bercial is delighted to welcome such a talented player to his squad and is very optimistic about the progress they can now make.
