Tigers aim for top
The Wolves Women were a somewhat different line-up to the one that the Tigers defeated comfortably 97-71 in April and with the Tigers missing co-captain Melissa Marsh the game was always going to be a challenge for them.
The Wolves got the jump on the Tigers and extended their four point (31-35) half time lead out to 10 points (31-41) early in the third. The Tigers pegged back the gap to three (48-51) by the last break.
After several lead changes and numerous tense moments the Tigers, lead by co-captain Kate Malpass (18 points), managed to hold on for a 66-64 win despite a well below par overall shooting performance from the 3-point line (1/10) and free throw line (5/14). Wolves veteran Sue Williams was solid with 16 points.
The Tigers Women have now sewn up the minor championship with one weekend remaining in the regular season. They will take on a struggling Stirling Senators team this Friday night at Willetton Basketball Stadium, then top four team the Perth Redbacks on Saturday night in Belmont.
Despite the fact that the Tigers will finish on top of the ladder regardless of the outcome of these two games, the all important momentum and psychological advantage leading into the finals will be crucial for the Tigers who will be aiming for another two wins.
The Tigers Men also had a tough night out against the Wolves, going into the contest undersized without star centre and NBL player Daniel Johnson. It was up to everyone to step up and play smart to fill the void.
A one point Tigers lead at the first break was extended to seven (49-42) by the half but the Wolves stormed back into contention with a 12-0 run at the start of the third to see them take a five point (49-54) lead.
Solid contributions from Cam Tovey and Ty Shaw along with some cameo three point shooting saw the Tigers out to a nice lead, 74-66, at the final change. The lead got out to double figures and the Wolves spent the quarter playing catch up.
Despite some tense moments the Tiger hung on for a gutsy 91-88 win, lead by Tovey (31 pts) and Shaw (21 pts & 18 rbds). Tiger rookie Mitch Clarke was sensational off the bench with 5-0f-7 triples to notch 15 pionts.
The Tigers men are now guaranteed a top two ladder position finish to the regular season, regardless of results against Stirling Senators this Friday night – one of only a few teams to beat the Tigers this season, and Perth Redback on Saturday night. Wins in both of these games will see the Tigers as minor champions – just like the Tigers Women.
Come on down to the Willetton Basketball Stadium to watch the Tigers take on Stirling Senators this Friday night, Women at 6:30pm and Men at 8:30pm
Article by Willetton Tigers
Photo by Wayne Wright Wayne Wright Photography
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