Match Report by Jordan Ross
Panthers had an inter-club league match tonight, as the Jaguars hosted the Pumas in the opening game of the season for both teams. The game started with very high intensity. Both teams looked to score through driving in the defensive gaps, but neither team could convert opportunities into baskets. Both teams stayed patient and managed to break down each other defensively. Shaun, Jack, and Fergus all hit threes for Jags, and Mike Diamond, making his return to the Pumas team, gave Jags a lot to deal with as he drove to the rim hard. Jags gave away too many fouls which Pumas converted from the free throw line. The first quarter ended 14-14.
In the second quarter, Jags started the better of the two teams. The three point threat and driving to the rim of Jack gave Pumas a lot to deal with on defence. The introduction of Cyrus for Jags gave them some well needed energy and another threat offensively. Pumas however, had their own impact player off the bench as Glen came on and dropped 10 consecutive points for Pumas. Pumas went into half time up 2.
As is usually the case, Jags came out blazing on both ends after the half time. Jags had a great quarter of shooting, hitting 5 threes in the quarter. Pumas stayed calm and eventually worked their way through the Jags zone. Jags poor boxing out, along with Pumas excellent offensive rebounding, saw Pumas stay in the game. On a half court buzzer beater attempt, Matty was fouled and Jags were gifted 3 free throws, however only converted 1, tying the game 50-50.
Sadly the Jags couldn’t hold on much longer. The experience of Pumas came into play and 3 time MVP Glen Honeyman scored some important points for Pumas which included a big time deep three. Pumas saw the game out in a calm and collected manor. Overall it was a great game which showed off what talent Panthers BC has to offer. On behalf of both teams, we would like to wish Chairman Willie Miller a speedy recovery from a wrist injury.
FINAL SCORE: JAGS 57-72 PUMAS
Jags Top Scorers:
Shaun Heer – 21
Jordan Ross – 14
Jack Ricci – 12
Pumas Top Scorers:
Michael Cattanach – 24
Glen Honeyman – 23
Calvin Dunbar – 10
