THE Crusaders Youth League Women had a convincing 25-point win over Sutherland at Bridgecoast Stadium on Sunday to cement third spot on the ladder with just one round of competition remaining.

Coach Drew Fenton said the 75-55 victory means their position can’t change and they have secured a home game for their first final.

“The girls played really well,” he said.

Fenton said the team lifted for Paige Melville’s send off.

She played her last game before leaving for a US college basketball scholarship.

A standout in Sunday’s game was Darneka Rowe, back to her early season form and looking to score at every opportunity.

Fenton said they were keen to continue their strong run against Illawarra Hawks at home next week.

Meanwhile, the Waratah Championship League Men were defeated 99-48 by Norths Bears away on Saturday but went down by just three points 81-78 to the Sutherland Sharks at Bridgecoast Stadium on Sunday.

The Youth League Men defeated the Central Coast’s Power Blue team 96-87 in division two on Saturday, while Power Blue went on to beat Port Stephens 92-61 on Sunday.