Magic Off To A Flying Start

Added 18 March 2012

Season 20Twelve could not have got off to a better start for the Hawthorn Magic in the BigV state league competition. Round 1 saw all four of the Magic's senior representative teams record victories.

The Division One men were pitted against the Warrandyte Venom who after an offseason of recruiting big names, were title favourites. On the back of stellar first halves from Dan McLennan and Jay Allen, the Magic established control early. The Venom worked their way back into the game but Hawthorn executed down the stretch to pull away for a 79-68 victory at home. McLennan and Allen led all scorers with 21 apiece whilst Zac Natoli ran the show brilliantly all night dishing out 9 assists.

Earlier in the night, the Magic Division One Women also faced Warrandyte who are overwhelming favourites to take out the title. After a slow start, the Venom took control of the match and looked to pace their way to the finish line. However, a late surge by the Magic left the game in the balance before Charlotte Ross-Harris' 3-point play with 10 seconds remaining gave the Magic a thrilling and upset 63-60 win. Tash Ross-Harris led the way throughout the match with 14 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists.

Over in Bulleen, the State Youth Championship Men took on the Boomers. On the back of a monster night from Ben Waldren which included 24 points, 17 rebounds, 4 steals and 2 blocks, the Magic led from start to finish to take a comfortable 91-68 victory. Jason Minerve chipped in with 20 points and 5 assists while Kieran Kaufmann also scored 20 points.

On Sunday, the State Youth Championship Women took on the Keilor Thunder at home. Gabby Maher led the way early as the Magic's full-court press choked the Thunder. Mel Prior dominated inside to record a 21 point/11 rebound double-double while Caitlin McCarthy also finished with double-digits on the boards. Jacqui Regan and Kat Laczoffy chipped in with 12 points apiece while Jayne McKay was everywhere with 9 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals in what was a convincing 73-55 win.

The Magic will be in action all season long at the Boroondara Sports Complex. Check the BigV link on the side-pane for game times and make sure you make your way down to BSC to support our teams as they take on the rest of the state in the BigV competition in season 2012.

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