THE Geraldton Buccaneers left it late again in the Round 11 State Basketball League game against Perth Redbacks at Tip Top Stadium on Saturday night.

A flat performance saw the Buccs chase the Redbacks' lead throughout and it took until the final quarter for Ray Evans' men to spring into action as they managed to snatch victory 100-90.

With a big game against SBL leaders, Lakeside Lightning on the horizon next Saturday, Evans expected his players to come out shooting from the off.

Matt Wundenberg, Daniel Thomas, Luke Meyer, Michael LeBlanc and Tom Witts commenced the evening on court for the Buccs; in what some would consider as one of best starting five in the SBL this year.

The Redbacks started the sharper of the two teams, with the young Michael Vigor enforcing his presence early on the defensive rebound against captain Wundenberg. Thomas and Witts were the Buccs better players of the first quarter both grabbing three pointers but they couldn't help the Buccs who trailed at the first quarter break 20-15.

Redbacks import, Chris Lynch began to exploit a few openings in the Buccs defensive quarters in the second period and the Redbacks gained an 11 point lead at one stage when Vigor hit a basket from the three point line.

Meyer, who was having a quiet game by his usually energetic standards, began to find his feet as half time approached along with fellow countryman, LeBlanc. Witts then reduced the deficit from the three point line as the half-time horn blared and the Redbacks led 47-44.

Keen to get the Buccs in control, LeBlanc reduced the Redback's lead to within two points and control of the scoreboard teetered between the two sides.

The game remained close and the Redbacks were persistent going into the final quarter leading by three points, with a score of 69-72.

The final quarter saw the Buccs finally click thanks to a commanding display by Thomas. Meyer got the final quarter off and running with an early basket to reduce the margin. Thomas then got the bench on their feet, smashing a three pointer to tie the score at 74-74. Import Earl Nurse was thrown back in for the Redbacks but the Buccs finally looked like they were geared up for the win. Adam Rowe was on song to make the most of a pass by Thomas six minutes from time and confidence seemed to arrive. Thomas hit another two from the three point line along with Witts who totaled an impressive 20 for the night. Meyer also extended the win with a three point scoring shot as the Buccs took the victory.

Article by Tom Davis (Geraldton Guardian)