DS1 with Kelli Valentine win easily from Den Helder

Not long ago, when Den Helder visited you saw half of the national team on the court (and we invariably lost). But times have changed. Yesterday, STOL-Grasshoppers had no problem with the former topclub.

Although the jumpball was at 21:00, many people didn’t manage to be in the sporthall on time, but didn’t miss much. Both teams start at a low tempo, and although it takes a while to get warmed up, it’s quickly clear that STOL-Grasshoppers will have an easy night. Den Helder is, especially in the first quarter, unable to make an impression. Players from both teams are having trouble with the ball, either bouncing it on their foot or spontaniously dropping it. But the STOL-Grasshoppers shots are hitting their mark, especially the 3-pointers. By halftime, STOL-Grasshoppers had scored 30 of their 49 points with faraway shots, and everyone was making them. Rianne 3, Karin 2, Sonja, Charley, Randell, and twice by the new addition Kelli Valentine. Kelli is sent in half way through the first half and starts immediately with a rebound and assist. When she then scores 8 points in a short time and is strong in the rebounding, it’s clear that we will have a lot of pleasure from our new team member. Coach Bo Melis can make substitutions without influencing the match, and everyone comes on the court, including Corine Manuputty who just returned from a shoulder injury.

Halftime is reached with a 49-28 lead.

The second half begins weak, even with a fast score by Ingrid. Den Helder makes 6 points in a row, including those by Tamlyn de Groot who scores 14 points in the match. STOL-Grasshoppers have a problem with the zone defense from Den Helder, but manage to make a small run , thanks to a steal from Charley who is then fouled on, and Julia Dijkman who shoots in a couple from the head of the bucket. Thanks to the nonchalance of the hometeam, the visitors are able to catch up a bit, STOL-Grasshoppers win the period only by 20-17.

The last period starts at the high tempo. Den Helder is beaten, especially when Tessel van Dongen is sent to the bench with 5 fouls. The 100 point score is in sight. Corine throws in a couple of 3-pointers, and Rianne follows. Julia risks a nose bleed in a rebound fight, and Karin goes at high speed to the board. Den Helder takes some time-outs to forecome the 100 point score and then try to win time by holding on to the ball. STOL-Grasshoppers reach 97 points, which isn’t bad of course, and Den Helder comes no further than 56 points. A well deserved win and an up-pepper for the next match on Saturday, 20:15, against Eurosped Twente in Cleijn Duin. Again with a fit and complete team.