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WITH star import Asia Taylor grounded for the second game in 24 hours, the Sydney Uni Flames looked to fellow American Jen Hamson and Opal Leilani Mitchell to lead the side back into the winners circle in the WNBL on Sunday.
Hamson, a 201cm forward from Utah, and Opal Mitchell stood up to be counted in the match against the Boomers, helping Sydney to a solid 80-71 win.
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READ NOWIt was major change in fortunes for the team who on Saturday suffered a second half meltdown against league leaders Dandenong, not helped by medical advice that Taylor might still be suffering a concussion after a head knock last round.
Hamson, who scored just 11 points against Dandenong, produced her best game of the year against the Boomers with 19 points and 11 rebounds as the Flames racked up their nine point victory.
Mitchell, one of the Flames’ best each week, against produced under pressure to end the match with 25 points, four rebounds and five assists.
In their first away match of the round, Dandenong Rangers came from behind to prevail at home against the Sydney Flames.
In a seesawing game, it was Dandenong who took the points to claim first blood in their series with the Sydney Uni Flames this season.
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Sitting top of the league ladder after victory last round, Dandenong consolidated their position with the 91-83 victory, outscoring the Flames 48-27 in the second half and outrebounding the visitors 40-33.
Captain Belinda Snell was outstanding for the Flames with a game high individual tally of 27 — her best for the season.
Snell also picked up seven rebounds and six assists with teammate Alex Wilson chipping in 20 points, six rebounds and three assists.
It was still a disappointing loss for the side, who had made their way into the top four last weekend, and new coach Cheryl Chamber.
Prior to the match Chambers had taken Coach of the Month honours after her side beat Melbourne, Townsville and Bendigo (in overtime) to own a three-game winning streak.
The Flames’ next match is against the Capitals in Canberra on Thursday with the Sydney side then hosting Bendigo Spirit on Saturday.