Luxol opened their MBA Shield commitments with a straight-forward win over Starlites. Photo: Matthew MirabelliLuxol opened their MBA Shield commitments with a straight-forward win over Starlites. Photo: Matthew Mirabelli

Pavi Depiro booked their place in the semi-finals of the St James Hospital Shield after a hard-fought win over Honey Athleta.

Caffe Moak Luxol opened their campaign with victory over Starlites Sport Experience.

Depiro managed to turn the tables on Athleta in the last quarter when 10 consecutive points opened the way for their victory.

Athleta had enjoyed a slender lead for much of the opening three sessions.

After Athleta potted the opening two baskets, Depiro hit back to go 13-4 ahead but it was the former who ended the first quarter 17-16 in front.

Depiro then nosed ahead, 22-21 but once again Athleta recovered to change ends 28-23 ahead. Athleta managed to preserve their advantage to start the last 10 minutes 44-41 in front but a 10-0 run for Depiro midway into the last quarter pushed them 54-49 ahead.

Athleta came back to regain the lead but a converted free-throw seven seconds from time edged Depiro 57-56 ahead as Athleta’s last two attempts were fruitless.

After a slow start, Luxol saw off Starlites’ resistance.

With Starlites 13-10 ahead at the end of the first quarter, Luxol increased their pressure to change ends 24-17 ahead.

Luxol continued to pull away as they nailed the first two baskets after the interval, starting the last 10 minutes 31-22 in front.

Starlites’ reaction fell short as Luxol emerged 44-30 winners.

Next fixtures
Saturday: 16.30 Phoenix vs Athleta.
Sunday: 14.45 Luxol vs Hibs.

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