Pirates prevail for season-opening win

Leading by seven at half-time, the Pirates extended their lead in the remaining two quarters to win by double digits.

Co-coach Georgie Eishold said the team’s overall success on Saturday stemmed from its defence.

“Defensive transition let us down last week, so that was the main focus this week,” Eishold said.

“We had consistent defensive effort from all players on the court at the same time.

“Then on offence we were able to deliver and hit good shots ... and turnovers in defence enabled us to convert.”

The Pirates were buoyed by several inclusions, including Erin Florance, who dominated in the paint to sink 18 of her 22 points there.

“Erin played a good game both inside and outside on the court on offense,” Eishold said.

“And she’s really strong on defence, so having her on Saturday was a great inclusion for the team.”

Meanwhile, Zara Pearson’s pressure at the basket got her to the free-throw line on several occasions.

But the fellow co-coach also shot well from the outside, with 12 of Pearson’s 22 points coming from the three-point line.

The Pirates will remain in Echuca to play their first home game of the season on Sunday against Kyneton.

The Tigers are 1-2, with the Pirates’ victory on Saturday a sure-fire confidence booster for the home side.

“It does give everyone a bit of confidence,” Eishold said.

“Last season, and a couple seasons before, we’ve either had one or zero wins for the season.

“So to come and get a win in the second round, it helps us know that what we are doing as a team we’re able to convert what we’ve been doing at practice straight on to the court.”