They climbed their way into sixth position with a comfortable 12-point win over Nunawading at the Minerdome yesterday.

Only their second home game of the season, the Ballarat Community Health Lady Miners were rarely out of a comfort zone.

They were never headed in the 71-59 outcome which gives them three wins from five games.

Coach Kym Cassells said the win also placed the Lady Miners well for a rematch with the Spectres at Nunawading on Saturday night.

"It gives us an edge mentally.''

Cassells believes Nunawading will also be without one of its most important players, Carly Wilson, who led the Spectres' scoring yesterday with 15 points.

Cassells says the Lady Miners will not underestimate Nunawading.

"They're better than their (one win-four loss) record indicates.''

There were few signs of this though as Ballarat took the game out of the Spectres' grasp in the opening quarter.

The Lady Miners jumped out to a 15-point lead.

They threatened to blow the game wide open when they found themselves in front by 19 before half-time.

However, Ballarat released the pressure and Nunawading increased its intensity and the encounter evened out.

Although the Spectres did close to within seven points, Cassells said she also felt the Lady Miners had the game under control.

"Our first quarter was outstanding .th.th. the best of the year."

Cassells said while it was disappointing Ballarat was unable to maintain its domination, her players were able to come up with the right plays when needed.

Amy Lewis was again on song from the perimeter with a perfect three from three in the first half to set up the early break, and then the experienced duo of Karen Ashby and Chantal Allgood made some clutch plays when the pressure was on.

Despite chalking up four quick fouls in the third term, Lewis still led the way with 19 points.

Kristy Rinaldi played a major support role with 16 points and seven rebounds.

Allgood stepped up to the plate big time when Lewis was benched.

With Nunawading looming large, she picked up a basket, block and rebound in quick succession to allow the Lady Miners re-assert their authority.