By Justin Schwarze
Adjusting to Youth League Championship is going to be an ongoing challenge for the Pakenham Warriors Women as they fell in both double-header fixtures over the weekend.
Pakenham’s first taste of the new league was away against the Waverley Falcons on Saturday.
In a competitive game, the Warriors found themselves in front at half time, 38-34.
Taleesha O’Kane had a standout performance, notching a double-double of 14 points and 10 rebounds.
However, the Falcons came out strong in the second half, led by Anika Stehbens’ 27 points.
A big third frame saw the hosts outscore Pakenham 15-26, taking a lead into the final period.
A steady fourth ensured Waverley its first victory of 2025 by a score of 66-79.
The Warriors had a quick chance for redemption with a matchup against Kilsyth at Cardinia Life the next day.
The hosts fell behind for most of their home opener, never gaining the lead after trailing 17-24 at quarter time.
Both teams shot poorly from deep on the afternoon, with Pakenham just 4/19 for the game.
With the score at 51-66 at the final change, the Cobras looked to be running away with it.
Stella O’Loughlin had other ideas though, exploding in the final term with a barrage of threes paired with some nice finishes through contact.
Her massive fourth quickly shaved the margin and the Warriors were within four with plenty of time to play.
However, Pakenham then struggled to counter Kilsyth’s hand-off actions, leading to easy baskets.
Timely offensive rebounds and put-backs for the Cobras fended off the comeback attempt, but it was an encouraging and promising showing from the hosts.
O’Loughlin finished with 22 points, supported by skipper Chelsea Schreuder with 11 of her own and Kailey Neave with 13 points and nine rebounds.
The Warriors will search for their maiden Championship win when they travel to face Frankston in round 2 on Sunday.
