Tigers VS BRISTOL ACADEMY - 14/10/06

In a high scoring and foul-filled game Tigers came from behind in the last quarter to sneak a late victory (97 - 91).

With a number of regulars missing and Jordan Seeley benched due to injury, this game had banana skin potential. The first half saw Bristol dominate inside and convert on a number of turnovers, exploiting the under 18's unusually lacklustre defense. Keeping the Tigers in contention was Captain Adam Rickwood providing 19 of the teams first half 43 points with a mix of strong inside moves and perimeter knockdowns. Offensive support was provided by Russ Martin and Tom Rowley converting open looks at the basket.

Despite a roasting at half-time by Coach Cameron Seeley, the team struggled against the physical defense of Bristol and were unable to convert on the offensive end. The Tigers even trailed by as many as 13 at one point. The introduction of Jordan Seeley and a three quarter court trapping defense mid way through the quarter proved pivotal. Several easy turnovers and lay-ups were created for Russ Martin and Bristol had no answer to Jordan Seeley's slashing drives to the basket. On the back of his 14 points the Tigers were inspired to a new level of confidence closing the gap to within 2 at the end of the period.

The final period saw Tigers maintain the defensive intensity and offensive control. Both Seeley and Rickwood creating havoc in the Bristol defense resulting in several of the Bristol starting five fouling out. With both Rickwood and Josh Baker fouling out early in the quarter and an injury to Jake woods, there was a danger that the defensive intensity would be lost and the momentum would swing to Bristol. However, the Tigers bench proved more than capable of absorbing the pressure and Tom Rowley's calm ball handling meant Bristol had to foul to stop the clock. The game was finally put beyond their reach with excellent free-throw technique from Seeley and Rowley.