The Stings got off to a blistering start and led the match until the fifth minute of the fourth quarter. Throughout the game the Crinums chased, but were simply sublime during the last period to claim the win.

The Stings led the game 18-11 after the first quarter and went on to lead 31-27 at half-time. Following the third 15-minute period the team from the Western Cape held a slender lead of 48-46. The Crinums made their move in the last period to take the lead and hold on for the win.

Crinums captain, Ané Retief, told OFM Sport the opening game went according to plan.

“We have a saying in the team where we say 'just keep at it'. We have a game plan and we know that it works.

“Even though we stay head-to-head in the first two quarters 'keep at it'. In the third quarter we eventually break through and pull away.

“I'm very satisfied with our performance. It was a really fun game to play even though it was quite intense.

“We are very happy with the win - we've bagged it and now we move on to the next one.”

On Friday morning at 10:00 the Crinums face the Kingdom Stars in their next game.

Morgan Piek/OFM Sport