Trevor Jackson
IN what some might have suggested was an unexpected turn of events, the Mount Gambier Lakers women defeated Millicent Magic last weekend to move up to top spot on the Country Basketball League ladder.
However, win they did and they now get to host third-placed Horsham on Sunday at the Icehouse.
The Lakers have struggled for numbers at certain rounds this season, with last week typical of that.
They have managed to find some young rising stars to fill the roster and remain ahead of the pack.
Regular starters are expected back this Sunday and will be needed against the Hornets.
The Hornets made short work of Terang in their last two outings, following a solid victory over Surfcoast.
However, they struggled early, with losses to Portland and Warrnambool.
They will need to lift to keep up with the Lakers, who, with a more rounded roster, will be hard to beat on their home turf.
They come off an entertaining five-point victory over Millicent Magic last week, with the young players standing up when required.
Millicent was also down on numbers, but it was the Lakers who celebrated at the final buzzer.
Apart from that result, and a four-point victory over Warrnambool, the Lakers have not been troubled this season and look good enough to play a major role in the post season.
They should account for the Hornets, but it will not be an easy win.
