Neither team was able to break away easily in the first quarter, with three minutes passing before the first point was scored.
The teams were evenly matched, although Varsity's strength on rebounds helped it to edge ahead, leading 7-4 at the end of the first quarter.
The second spell saw a ramp up in intensity from Ajax, which was at its best when top-scorer Janet Main (19) and Jacqui Lodge were on court.
Both sides showed nice periods of play, but it was Ajax that managed to capitalise on its chances more frequently.
Main's leadership was vital, and she helped Ajax pull away to a 13-point lead at the halftime break.
The third quarter mirrored the second, with mistakes costing Varsity precious points. Varsitycould not crack Ajax's defence, which was stifling at times.
Ajax extended its advantage to lead 38-23 heading into the final quarter, and the game looked to be all but over.
A resurgent Varsity side took to the court for the final quarter
desperate to take advantage of every opportunity to reduce the deficit.
Bronwyn Kjestrup (12) had a solid game, particularly in the final quarter when she kept her composure under tight Ajax defence.
The atmosphere was tense, and it became evident that every shot was crucial as Varsity closed the gap to just five points.
Hana Wilkinson (12) was at the forefront of the Varsity fight-back, taking five rebounds and one steal.
Varsity attacked strongly and capitalised on turnovers, but it was too little, too late for the students as they fell to a deserving Ajax side 49-42.
- by Daisy Hudson
