ANCASTER, ON  The Niagara Knights were in town Wednesday, January 17th for an OCAA West division match-up.  The Knights have started hot with a 7-3 conference record with them sitting 4th place, with an opportunity to host a home playoff match in February. Royals women's Basketball looked to spoil the Knights playoff seeding as they sought to flip the script from last semester's match-up in Welland, ON. 

Wednesday's match was a close contest all night long. Late in the 1st quarter, the Knights had control of the largest lead of the match as they were ahead by 8 points. The Royals fought back and held their own as the lead changed 4 times through the game. This contest saw a tied game heading into the 4th and deciding quarter where the shooting efficiency of the Knights could not be contained by the Royals. The Knights shot 65% from the field in the final quarter as the Royals shot 31%. 

Dual sport athlete Mia Palango had another red-hot night for the Royals notching 18 points, 7 rebounds and 3 steals. Palango added 10 points to her average points per game against the Knights and will be a cornerstone for the Royals' offence and defence as they hunt down a playoff berth. 

Veteran Jessica Angelini continued to play a key role for the Royals as she played all 40 minutes. Angelini recorded 15 points, 7 rebounds, 3 steals and 3 assists. 

A hard-fought match by the Royals as they displayed that they can contend with any team that enters the Den. Royals Basketball is back at home on Wednesday, January 24th as they host the Conestoga Condors.