The Return to The Furnace

After a long stretch on the road, the Bendigo Bank Eastern Suns are finally back at Ray Owen for their first home game since early June — and it’s a big one. In Round 13, the Suns face off against the Perth Redbacks for the second time in just two weeks, this time on home court under the lights of a meaningful Mental Health Round – Mitchell Delle Coste Memorial Games sponsored by Stott Hoare.

FORM GUIDE

Women
The Suns Women are coming off a tough loss to Warwick, but showed real grit the week prior in a competitive outing against the Redbacks. Karly Murphy and Tayjanna McGhee-Pleasant were dominant in that match-up and will be key to the Suns’ hopes of bouncing back.
The Redbacks split their double-header last weekend, falling to East Perth by 12 points before bouncing back with a 1-point win over Rockingham.

Men
Despite going down to Warwick last week, the Suns Men stayed competitive throughout and continue to show positive signs. They’ll be hungry to respond on home court.
The Redbacks, meanwhile, had a difficult double-header, dropping both games to the Eagles and Flames. Sitting on equal wins with the Suns just two weeks ago, this game could prove crucial to both teams’ standings.

LAST TIME THEY MET

Women
Date: June 13, 2025
Location: Belmont Oasis Leisure Centre
Result: Redbacks 97 – Suns 83

The Suns Women matched up well against the Redbacks across most quarters but were undone by a lopsided second term. There were positives to take, including a dominant display inside the paint.

Men
Date: June 13, 2025
Location: Belmont Oasis Leisure Centre
Result: Suns 106 – Redbacks 91

A statement win for the Suns on the road, fuelled by a monumental 50-point effort from Marshall Nelson. The team’s balance and pace proved too much for the Redbacks.

ONES TO WATCH

Women
Murphy and McGhee-Pleasant combined for nearly 50 points in the previous match-up against the Redbacks, expect this duo to once again set the tone.

Men
All eyes will be on Randy Bell, who debuted last week against Warwick. With another full week of training and a strong 17-point performance in 31 minutes, he’ll be looking to explode in front of the home crowd.

With two fierce matchups on deck and plenty on the line, Round 13 promises to be a special night in The Furnace — one filled with meaning, action, and passion.

Let’s raise awareness, celebrate community, and honour Mitchell Delle Coste together.