Lady Hornets lose semi-final against Warrnambool | 2019-2020 Country Basketball League

The Horsham-based side suffered from an inability to convert their opportunities, while the Warrnambool Mermaids showed the type of class and quality that guided them to the South West Women minor premiership.

Lady Hornets coach Tony Sleep said despite the result, he was proud of his side's effort in the 69-44 loss.

"Our shots just wouldn't fall, and unfortunately for us, Warrnambool did what they have done all year, which is hit their shots at a very high percentage," Sleep said.

"Louise Brown (16 points) and Nicole Gynes (17) got going for them early, which made things very tough.

"The effort and endeavour was there - but a lack of baskets in the first half hurt. It was scoreboard pressure that really hurt us."

Sleep said Warrnambool had done their research, utilising a game plan to stifle Faith McKenzie (9 points) and Caitlin Dumesny (7).

Sleep described the Mermaids as "easily" the best side they had played this season.

"That being said, we know we're not far away," Sleep said.

As the season came to an end, Sleep said it had been an enjoyable and transformative 2019-2020 season.

He said giving opportunities to young Hornets such as Grace Manserra, Imogen Worthy and Jemma Thomas had been a major positive of the year.

"We didn't lose any ground on where we the side finished last year, while we've changed a lot of things we do both on and off the court," Sleep said.

"The girls have taken on everything I've thrown at them.

"I hope what we've done will benefit the program going forward."

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