LIVERPOOL BLACK VS GRIZZLIES

The Grizzlies U16s secured their second win of their NBL season on Saturday 30^th November, coming away with a 52-64 win at Liverpool Black.

The Grizzlies began the game strongly and finished the first quarter at 6-14 up, and continued to play some good basketball in the 2nd quarter, getting rewards for an effective pressing game and good movement to go into HT with a lead of 17-28.

The Grizzlies asserted their control of the game in the 3rd quarter, taking the score to 25-50, before Liverpool threatened to stage a dramatic comeback after a great start to the 4th quarter, with the Grizzlies struggling to keep possession – but a trademark 3-pointer from Olly Cornes and a calm head from Sam Akker from free throw after being fouled saw the Grizzlies home with a 52-64 final score.

Olly Cornes top scored for the Grizzlies with 14pts, Reuben Murphy & Judah Hunter both continued their excellent scoring seasons with 13pts each, and Sam Akker hit 10pts alongside a long list of steals & blocks from the Grizzlies #18.

MVP was awarded to Cruz Gomes, who made it back-to-back MVP wards after another electric performance that often tied the Liverpool defence in knots.

U16s Head Coach Ryan Anderson said the win was well deserved; “From the first tip, the players showed they were up for the game.  I was especially pleased with how well they had put their practice on passing into action during the game, with the lads showing some great movement and vision to get through the Liverpool defence.  When we play to our strengths and finish well we’re a match for anyone.”