Geelong Venom Basketball Women held off a determined Southside Women side on October 24, 2026, winning 74-69 in a Women’s National Basketball League contest that remained tense until the closing minutes. The Venom led for much of the game but had to survive a third-quarter surge before finishing with composure at both ends.

Match overview

The game was never comfortable for either team. Geelong started brightly and led 37-33 at halftime, then saw Southside claw their way back into the contest. A tight third quarter left the Venom ahead 53-52 going into the final period, setting up a finish that demanded poise, rebounding, and execution in the half court.

• First quarter: Geelong 19-17 Southside
• Second quarter: Geelong 18-16 Southside
• Third quarter: Geelong 16-19 Southside
• Fourth quarter: Geelong 21-17 Southside
• Final score: Geelong Venom Basketball Women 74-69 Southside Women

How the game unfolded

Geelong were the sharper side early, using ball movement and strong baseline cuts to build a narrow advantage. Southside stayed within touching distance by attacking the offensive glass and drawing fouls, but the Venom’s defense did enough to protect a four-point halftime lead. The third quarter changed the mood: Southside lifted their pressure, forced Geelong into rushed possessions, and briefly seized the momentum.

With the margin reduced to a single point entering the fourth, the game became a test of execution. Geelong responded with better shot selection and a decisive run midway through the period. Southside refused to fade, but the Venom made the crucial stops in the final two minutes and converted their free-throw opportunities to close out the five-point win.

Tactical story

The Venom’s rebounding edge proved important in the closing stages. They limited Southside’s second-chance points when it mattered and controlled the defensive boards, preventing the visitors from extending possessions. On offense, Geelong were at their best when the ball moved through the high post and created corner spacing. Southside’s defensive pressure caused problems, but foul trouble and cold shooting in the final period left them just short.

Standout performers

Mia Thornton was central to Geelong’s victory, scoring 20 points and adding eight rebounds, with several key baskets in the fourth quarter. Southside’s Chloe Barrett kept her team in the fight with 18 points and six rebounds, while the visitors’ guard rotation combined well to create open looks. Geelong’s ability to find balanced scoring behind Thornton proved the difference in a game of fine margins.

Season impact

The win gives Geelong Venom valuable confidence in the Women’s National Basketball League, especially in a game that demanded late-game discipline. Holding a compact Southside side to 69 points is a positive sign for their defensive trajectory. Southside leave with credit for their fightback but will rue missed chances in the final quarter, when a couple of clean looks could have changed the outcome.