South East Tigers 62 – 70 Bognor Pirate
South East Tigers had their first setback of the season as they suffered a loss to a highly experienced Bognor Pirates that featured 3 players who play in the National League.
Both teams started the game well with efficient offence from their guards; the Tigers scoring baskets and the Pirates using strong drives to the basket to draw fouls and gain free throws. The first quarter finished 16-19 to Bognor.
The second quarter saw a reversal of fortune and tactics. Tigers aggressive pressure defence caused a number of turnovers which they ran back for easy lay-ups. Strong drives to the basket drew fouls which led to a string of free throws while Bognor were able to keep the score close with accurate perimeter shooting. At half time the Tigers led 35-33.
The 3rd quarter saw Bognor ramp up the pressure as they switched defences and they regained the lead with some good steals and fast breaks. The intensity of the game caused emotions to run high on both sides and unfortunately two Bognor players picked up unsportsmanlike fouls. The quarter ended Tigers 48 – 51 Pirates.
The visitors started the last quarter with high intensity that the Home team found hard to match, the lead extending to 9 points. A Good use of Time-Out by Coach Andy Hodder stopped the slide but the damage had been done and the lead was maintained until the final whistle, the Pirates winning by 70 points to 62.
Tigers still top the league table although other teams have games in hand.
South East Tigers scorers:- Joel Hunt 17, Geoff Lowe 17, Piotr Skrzypek 11, Pawel Skrzypek 8, Tim Hambridge 6, Jake Thompson 2, Justin Hemmings 1.
Free Throws:- SET 9 from 16; BP 7 from 16.
Fouls:- SET 13, BP 18.
3 Pointers:- SET 6, BP 5.
The local club also fielded its first U16 team this week with a match against Worthing D&D Dunkers. The young players were unable to grab a victory but gained valuable experience against one of the best teams in the league. Youth Coach Joel Hunt said ‘My players performed well for their first outing, we know now where we need to aim in terms of standard and intensity’.