National League Basketball in association with Heaven Scent Yankee Candles Middlesbrough & TADEA, Sustainable Energy Solutions

Hull Wasps 96-65 TADEA Middlesbrough Lions
TADEA Middlesbrough Lions 88-58 Cumbria All Stars
Travelling to the in form Hull Wasps on Saturday night was always going to be tricky, especially as TADEA Lions were without their three big men and the best big man in the league was Wasps’ John Brignell. The 6’8 current league top scorer has dominated in all games so far yet he was contained to a respectable 21pts by Lions. Lions Matt Taylor, returning from a twisted ankle, finished as games top scorer on 22pts but his team mates struggled to match that performance and Hull would finish 96-65 winners.

Following this was the serious matter of Cumbria All Stars for TADEA Lions and the game was an important one for Middlesbrough. A good performance was essential to instil some confidence into the Lions after a couple of difficult weeks and this is exactly what they got which was great for the home fans who generated a superb atmosphere.

Middlesbrough star; Tom Robinson, who has struggled in recent games dug deep through an ankle injury to impress in the first quarter against his former club. Matt Taylor and Ryon Dixon were on fire in the early stages, combining for 13pts. Robinson added a 3-pointer in the sixth minute to take a 16-6 lead. Rob Parsons and Warriner finished well for Lions while Cumbria struggled to establish any rhythm. A late 3-pointer from Terry Cannon provided a boost for the visitors, but they were still down 31-13.

In previous league games, TADEA Lions have struggled to play consistently well, showing flashes of brilliance mixed with elements of calamity. Fans though were witnessing the best Lions basketball this season with good movement, passing and finishing. Some good play in the fourth minute by Cumbria’s Trotter and Brown showed the visitors potential but a 3-pointer and lay up from Warriner dampened their spirits and Coach Longworth was left contemplating how he could galvanise his side’s position, 21pts down. As the clock ticked down, a quick burst of speed from Trotter allowed the speedy guard to lose his defender and score the last basket of the half. TADEA Lions though were still 22pts ahead at the buzzer.

In the second half it was a battle of the number fives as Robinson of Lions and Rickerby of Cumbria were most active. Rickerby went to the foul line twice but would only manage 1 of 4 attempts, seemingly distracted by the immense noise created by the home fans. Later in the period, Cumbria veteran Holdon stamped his mark with 5pts. His good positioning and strong presence inside the key was proving a problem for Middlesbrough. A good run from Krisciunas finished the third quarter with a big 3 on the buzzer to build slightly on their lead by 2pts, 68-44.

Lithuanian star; Krisciunas began where he left off as he produced a strong drive at the start of the final quarter, however fouls were beginning to trouble the Middlesbrough side as Warriner, Wright and Humes all made fouls to send Cumbria to the line. The saving grace form Coach Thomson’s perspective was that Cumbria struggled to convert 2 of 12 attempts in the final period. Two 3’s in the final minute from TADEA Lions Robinson and Dixon settled the game with a 30pt victory.

The MVP was awarded to TADEA Lions Tom Robinson who shone bright against his former team and top scored with 28pts. Good support from Matt Taylor (15) and Ryon Dixon (13) ensured a good team input, with all players scoring. For Cumbria Terry Cannon was the top performer with 13pts. Trotter and Stevenson chipped in with 11 apiece.

TADEA Lions are next in action on Sunday when they entertain Durham Wildcats at Eston Sports Academy. The game tips off at 4pm, spectators are asked to be seated by 3.30pm. Tickets are only £3 children, £4 adults and £12 family. Call 01642 814221 for more details.

The game may also see a new face on display. Rumours are making the rounds that the club are on the verge of signing what could be one of the biggest coups in the club’s history. Club chief; James Thomson was not giving much away when asked if true but did state “We are hoping to add one or two players to finish our jigsaw, injuries have taken their toll in recent weeks and have highlighted the need to strengthen our squad. We will have to wait and see how this pans out though as there are a lot of factors involved.”

Visit www.middlesbroughlions.co.uk to keep updated