Rebels Women Secure Dramatic Victory Over Gladiators on Community Day
The Essex Rebels Women’s team delivered an unforgettable performance on Community Day, edging out Caledonia Gladiators 93-91 in a nail-biting contest at the Essex Sports Arena in front of a lively crowd of over 450 fans.
The Rebels started strongly, taking a 24-20 lead after the first quarter and extending their advantage to 57-44 at halftime. However, the Gladiators mounted a spirited comeback in the second half, setting up a tense finish before the Rebels held on for the crucial victory.
Maria Blazejewski led the way for the Rebels with a stellar 22-point, 8-rebound performance, while Lauren Park-Lane orchestrated the offense with 17 points and a game-high 12 assists. Leah McDerment added 14 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists, with Daniella Turner (11 points, 2 rebounds, 2 assists) and Brooke Flowers (12 points, 10 rebounds) also making significant contributions.
The Rebels shot 42% from the field and 30% from beyond the arc, while converting an impressive 80% of their free throws. Their balanced attack featured effective ball movement, resulting in 25 assists on 30 made field goals, and their defensive intensity forced 18 turnovers from the visitors.
For Caledonia, Téa Adams (18 points, 7 assists) and Kirsty Brown (18 points, 4 rebounds) led the scoring, while Kat Tudor added 17 points and 3 assists in a valiant effort. The Gladiators shot well from the field (53%) but couldn’t quite complete their comeback despite outscoring the Rebels 47-36 in the second half.
The victory improves the Rebels’ record as they continue their push toward the playoffs, giving the Community Day crowd a memorable basketball experience to celebrate.
The Rebels face three more games to see out the regular season, with two home fixtures coming up – against Cardiff Met Archers next Saturday and B. Braun Sheffield Hatters on Wednesday 23rd April – before concluding with an away game at Sheffield on April 27th.
Tickets for the remaining home games are available now – secure your seats today to support the Rebels as they make their final push before the playoffs!
