The Perth Lynx staged a thrilling comeback, overcoming a 16-point deficit to defeat the Southside Melbourne Flyers 79-76 at the Perth High Performance Centre on October 15, 2023. Co-captain Anneli Maley shone brightly, scoring 13 points in the final quarter alone, proving crucial in the Lynx’s second remarkable comeback of the season.
Trailing by 16 points late in the third quarter, the Lynx refused to back down. They rallied with an explosive 27-10 run in the final period, echoing their previous comeback against the Sydney Flames last month, where they overcame a 10-point deficit with a 25-9 final quarter. Coach Ryan Petrik praised the team’s resilience, stating, “The fourth quarter was probably the best we’ve played all year. It will certainly give them a sense of belief.”
The Lynx struggled in the first half, consistently missing lay-ups and falling behind. However, Maley’s transformation from early-game struggles to late-game heroics was a testament to her growth. She ended the match with 22 points and 13 rebounds, solidifying her role as a leader on the court. Guard Ally Wilson, who played with a mask due to a broken nose, reflected on Maley’s crucial performance. “We look to Maley in times of need and follow her lead, hence why she’s our captain,” she noted.
This victory not only boosts the Lynx’s confidence but also reinforces their depth this season, with Petrik emphasizing the importance of playing harder for longer. As the WNBL season progresses, all eyes will be on the Lynx to see if they can maintain this momentum and continue their fight for the championship.
Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how this comeback will influence the Lynx’s upcoming matches. With a newfound belief and determination, the Perth Lynx are proving they can never be counted out.
