National League Division 4 SW
Huish Taunton Tigers 72, Southampton Uni Sharks 64

FOLLOWING their loss in the Shield competition last week, it was back to Division 4 South West League action for Tigers on Saturday when they welcomed Southampton University Sharks to Richard Huish College

Tigers have yet to lose in the league and they showed why in the first quarter, getting off to an excellent start. 

They weren’t able to maintain that level though, which made for a frustrating but exciting end to the game as Sharks came storming back to almost take the win.

Taunton outscored Southampton 27-15 in the first period with good outside shooting and well-executed offense.

Forward Jack Roberts led Tigers with eight points in the quarter and there was good, unselfish play across the whole team.

In the second quarter the scoring slowed for Tigers with Sharks stepping up their defence. 

They still won the quarter, limiting Southampton’s opportunities, and, heading into half time, Taunton held a comfortable 46-28 lead.

With nothing to lose in the third quarter, Southampton forced Tigers into mistakes and turnovers, which they were able to convert into points. 

With Sharks increasing their pressure and taking away space, Tigers instead of moving the ball and keeping to their system, played right into Southampton’s defense as they began to rely on individuals. 

Despite the turnaround, they were able to maintain their lead 61–45, losing the quarter by just two.

The final quarter was very scrappy and, with less than three minutes remaining, Sharks trailed by just two points. 

With the game in the balance, Igors Kuznecovs pulled up and knocked down a three pointer to give Taunton a five-point cushion. 

He followed up with two made free throws as he was fouled on a dribble move to the basket.

Sharks played hard till the end but with the swing of momentum provided by Kuznecovs, Tigers were able to find the composure to close out the game. 

Jack Roberts top scored for Taunton with 23 points. 

On Saturday, Tigers travel to Surrey Rams (tip-off 7pm).