Inconsistency at both ends of the court condemned Bermuda’s under-14 girls basketball team to a second straight defeat on their tour to Montreal on Thursday, when they were beaten 38-26 by Villa Maria Academy.

“The starters played lethargic, which prompted the bench to see more playing time in the first half,” Tim Trott, the Bermuda head coach, said.

Trailing 24-8 at the half, Bermuda’s girls appeared done and dusted. But an improved effort from their starters in the second half led to them coming to within striking distance of Villa Maria lead before they struggled again to put plays together.

“We were able to cut the lead to six points early in the fourth quarter, but unable to get over the hump due to inconsistent play,” Trott said.

Inshan-nae Smith, with six points, and Zariah Amory, with five, led the scoring for Bermuda, who were due to face Lakeside Academy yesterday.

Today, the youngsters will play in a round-robin tournament along with four local club teams.