CAB Estepona Claims Thrilling Last-Minute Victory in Melilla, Continuing Winning Streak
The Málaga-based team edges out La Salle Melilla 65-66 in a dramatic finish, with Marina Gea leading the charge.
CAB Estepona Jardín de la Costa del Sol secured a crucial win in Melilla, extending their winning streak to seven consecutive games in the 23rd round of the LF Challenge. Despite logistical challenges, the Málaga team, led by a standout Marina Gea in the second half, triumphed 65-66 in a nail-biting finish.
CAB Estepona’s trip to Melilla for their 23rd-round match of the LF Challenge League was marked by a series of setbacks that added uncertainty to the encounter. From canceled and delayed flights at Málaga Airport to a 40-minute delay caused by a third-division FEB game, the match’s start seemed to foreshadow complications for Francis Tomé’s team. However, the Málaga side remained composed and, despite some ups and downs, secured a win that keeps them in the race for the top spots.
A shaky start: Uncertainty and visitor dominance
The match began with both teams struggling to find their rhythm after the day’s disruptions. La Salle Melilla, with a shorter-than-usual warm-up, started erratically, but a three-pointer from captain Noelia Masiá allowed Estepona to take a 4-5 lead early on. From there, CAB Estepona, with contributions from Ruth Sherrill and another three-pointer from Masiá, extended their advantage to 6-11, which they maintained until the end of the first quarter, finishing with a 11-16 lead.
A dominant second quarter
The second quarter started with an exchange of baskets, but CAB Estepona quickly showcased their superiority, especially from the perimeter. Marina Gea and Andrea Alcántara helped build a 16-point lead (13-29), forcing La Salle Melilla to call a timeout to stop the bleeding. The home team, reliant on their three-point shooting, could not find their range, finishing the quarter with zero of eleven from beyond the arc. Meanwhile, Estepona kept adding to their score from the outside, reaching a 17-point lead (15-32) before Melilla started hitting shots from distance. An 8-2 run brought the score closer, with Melilla finishing the half at 23-34, leaving the game wide open for the second half.
La Salle Melilla’s comeback
After the break, La Salle Melilla came out with renewed intensity. A 9-0 run in the first two minutes brought them within two points (32-34). CAB Estepona head coach Álex Gómez called a timeout, but the local team’s momentum continued. Despite some offensive struggles, Melilla took the lead with a free throw from Marie Forsyth (35-34). However, CAB Estepona, led by Gea, quickly responded with a nine-point run of their own, extending their lead to 40-46. The quarter ended with La Salle still within reach (45-46), setting the stage for a dramatic final 10 minutes.
The final moments: A heart-stopping finish
The final quarter began with a steal and easy layup from CAB Estepona’s Granada-born point guard, giving the visitors some breathing room with a 45-50 lead. However, La Salle, with a three-pointer from Torreblanca and another from Forsyth, closed the gap once again (58-64), leaving everything to play for in the closing moments. With just 50 seconds remaining, Melilla had the opportunity to equalize, but CAB Estepona kept their cool in the final seconds. By moving the ball precisely and avoiding fouls, the Estepona players held onto their 65-66 lead, securing the victory.
CAB Estepona continues to demonstrate their strength in the competition with this victory, not only reinforcing their seven-game winning streak but also staying in contention for the top spots in the LF Challenge League. With an inspired Marina Gea and a team that overcame adversity, Estepona keeps their dreams alive for a successful end to the season.