Straker, Neita power X-Women past Capers
X-Women use dominant third quarter to pull away and defeat Capers
Sydney, NS - STFX shook off a cold shooting start and used a dominant third quarter to pull away from Cape Breton, earning a 75–60 road win Saturday night at Sullivan Fieldhouse.
The X-Women donned Royals jerseys in the game – those of the high school in Antigonish – due to an inadvertent error in leaving their gear bag of STFX uniforms at home. The Royals squad played in neighboring North Sydney and loaned their jerseys for the occasion.
Mali Straker led all scorers with 24 points, adding 10 rebounds for a double-double. Despite an off night from deep (STFX shot just 12.9% from three), Straker's steady aggression, including 7-for-9 at the line, kept the X-Women's offense afloat.
But it was Shannon Neita who changed the game's complexion. The forward bulldozed her way to 16 points and a massive 16 rebounds, including 10 offensive boards, anchoring a STFX frontcourt that overwhelmed CBU on the glass. The X-Women finished with a 56–31 rebounding advantage, generating second chances that ultimately broke the game open.
The Capers briefly seized momentum with an explosive second frame, shooting 75% from the field to outscore the visitors 26–18 and take a halftime lead. Amanda Cruickshank was relentless, pouring in 20 points and going 10-for-13 from the stripe. Alicia Bowering added 12, and Emily MacNeil provided a spark off the bench with 8 points and 6 rebounds.
But the X-Women flipped the script in the third. The Blue and White shot 47.8%, their best quarter of the night, while holding Cape Breton to just 17.6%. Straker and Neita fueled a 28–13 run that restored control, and the X-Women's depth helped them maintain separation as the Capers' offense cooled.
Lauren Neeve added 13 points and three assists, while Reegan Bell chipped in 10 points and 8 rebounds. Kristine Cooper delivered 8 assists and 5 steals.
Cape Breton fought to the end, but 22 turnovers and difficulties generating paint touches prevented a late push.
With the win the X-Women improve to 7–3 on the season, tied for third spot in the AUS standings. Tonight's game marked the final one before the Christmas break. They will return to action in an exhibition matchup in Truro, NS on Friday, January 2nd at 1:00 pm versus the UPEI Panthers.
-30-
