TIGERS CLINCH SECOND PLACE AND HOME DRAW IN PLAY-OFFS

Two hard fought wins against Bognor Pirates and away to Cardiff Clippers saw the Taunton Tigers clinch second spot in the South West Conference of the National League. They have now earned a home draw in the first round of the National playoffs against the third placed team in the South East Conference. Somerset will brace itself for another showcase match against London Eastside Eagles at Wellsprings on Saturday (Tip 6:00pm).

Bognor Pirates provided stern opPOSITION on Saturday and the Tigers were forced to weather the early storm as Bognor opened up a nine-point lead, but slowly Taunton managed to impose their passing game against the visitors repeatedly finding high percentage shots. In the absence of star Paul Yabsley, rookie Tad Gray was asked to step up his game. The 19 year old responded with a fantastic all round game that earned him the 'most valuable player' award. Bognor rallied late to provide a nervous finish but Joe Andrews calmed the anxiety with his 5th three point shot to ensure the Tigers ran out 84 – 69 winners.

On Sunday the away game against Cardiff Clippers was always going to be a difficult game. The Clippers were firing on all cylinders with their familiar outside game. They made 5 three pointers in the first quarter to open up a 22 – 16 point lead. The second quarter saw the Tigers establish their inside game to tie the game at 36 all at half time. The second half was nip and tuck all the way but the Tigers collective team performance was enough to see them finish 78 – 73 winners and celebrate an end to an impressive regular season.

Coach Ronnie Heath was delighted with the effort from his players, "The players have shown fantastic character to bounce back and win these two crucial games. Lets hope we can have a run in the playoffs to extend Dave Bullocks career."