Caledonia Gladiators saw their SLB Cup run come to an end with an 84 – 66 Semi Final defeat to the Sheffield Hatters at the Canon Medical Arena in Sheffield this Monday night.

The Gladiators made an impressive start on the road in Sheffield, taking control of the opening quarter 26–22 before maintaining their composure to hold a 42–39 advantage at the half. The Gladiators shared the scoring well and executed effectively in the half court, while their defensive intensity disrupted Sheffield’s rhythm in the opening 20 minutes.

The momentum shifted after the break as the Hatters raised their defensive pressure and began to dominate inside. Sheffield edged the third quarter to move in front and then produced a decisive 27–14 final period to seal the win. The home side shot 51% from the field and outscored the Gladiators 54–32 in the paint, while also winning the rebounding battle 42–37.

Tierra Hodges led the Gladiators with 14 points and 5 rebounds, Annie Warren added 12 points and 8 assists, and Brynn Masikewich contributed 11 and 6 rebounds off the bench, but Sheffield’s second-half surge proved decisive as the Hatters advanced to the final.

A tough result this evening but the Gladiators keeping fighting as they refocus on SLB Championship action. They will be back in action at home this Sunday to take on the Oaklands Wolves in a highly anticipated match up at Playsport.