Flames’ fire doused by slick Senators

After producing a spectacular away victory against the Goldfield Giants, the Rockingham Flames were left to lick their wounds after a disappointing 94-75 defeat at the hands of Stirling Senators.

On a high after a morale-boosting win in Kambalda, the Flames failed to string together two cohesive performances and were made to pay the price by a well-oiled Senators side.

Flames coach Mark Utley said he was disappointed with his side’s topsy-turvy form in the State Basketball League.

“Defeating the Giants was one of the best victories I’ve been associated with — to go up there and win so convincingly,” he said.

“But last week we came out flat, we just weren’t good enough against a Stirling team that shot and controlled the tempo well.

“We shot at a horrible percentage and had one of those games where no-one shot well.

“At the end of the game, I said to the guys I couldn’t single anyone out for a bad game because it was all 12 of us, even players coming off the bench looked flat and tired.”

Also worrying for Utley was the Flames’ inability to put on a show for their home fans at the Mike Barnett Sports Complex.

“Friday night games seem to be an issue, it’s something we need to get over,” he said. “I don’t know if it’s psychological — we seem to play better on Saturday night.

“Our best games have been away from home, which is worrying for the people who come down to watch us, that’s something we’ve got to concentrate on.”

The Flames have an uphill task against third-placed Perry Lakes Hawks at the WA Basketball Centre at 8.30pm on Friday.

“Perry Lakes have changed their coach and have lost something like their last few games,” Utley said.

“They’re going to come out hungry against us and we’ve got to be hungry to play.”

Meanwhile, the Women’s SBL has a new ladder leader for the first time in a month after the Flames suffered a shock loss to Stirling in round 12.

The Flames defeat opened the door for Wanneroo, who leapt into top spot after a comprehensive win over East Perth on Saturday.

On Friday night, Rockingham returned to action after a bye in round 11 and were caught on the hop by the Senators, who dominated the final quarter to rack up an 82-78 win.

Amber Land registered 29 points and 11 rebounds in a stellar display for the Senators, while Tegan Walker scored 21 points and Taylor Lilley added 12.

The Flames dropped to third place, with Willetton moving into second place on the back of a superior percentage despite having the bye in round 12.