Giants cut down to size by Conquerors

Their lead may only be a short one as rivals South Coast Dreams and East Grinstead should win their games in hand, but it represents a notable achievement for their first season back in the league.

In an action-packed contest at Helenswood Sports Centre, Hastings, watched by the Conquerors' largest audience this season, the visiting Giants were actually the better team in the early stages. They won the first quarter 17-10 and Conquerors, without regular starters Al Wick and Myles Danquah, were slow to find any defensive chemistry or get their offence going.

A change in tactics, however, saw the Conquerors take a 28-21 lead into the half time break after winning the second quarter 18-4.

Despite losing his 100 per cent record from the free throw line this season, Ben Waller did much of the home side's scoring in the first half. He and Jim Farley got the Conquerors' fast break going and converted at the other end.

With a seven point lead and their confidence restored, the Conquerors looked a rejuvenated side and used their energy on defence to create turnovers from the visitors. Rob Abbotts led the way in the third quarter, playing some great full court defence and scoring three baskets in a row for the Conquerors.

Andy Hodder and Simon Fortsch chipped in with the scoring and, thanks to the defensive intensity of Abbotts and Nathan Weaver, the Conquerors were able to open up a big lead. They won the third quarter 23-11, and went into the final period up 51-32.

MVP for the Giants, Damien Read, scored 13 points in the contest, but it was not enough to slow down the Conquerors in the final quarter. Luke Hunt and Jim Farley got to the basket with strong drives to keep the score ticking over for the home side, who have now won six of their nine games this season, and they ran out winners by 76 points to 42.

Conquerors starting forward James Tichband scored in all four quarters of the game to gain the award of MVP for the game.

Next home game for the Conquerors will be a league tie with the Hailsham Hotshots on February 4 at Helenswood. Tip-off is 8.45pm and spectators are welcome. For more information on 1066 Conquerors, visit their website www.1066basketball.co.uk

Conquerors: Jim Farley 19pts, Ben Waller 18, Rob Abbotts 10, James Tichband 10, Andy Hodder 7, Luke Hunt 7, Simon Fortsch 2, Nathan Weaver 2, Mark Jones.

Giants: Damien Read 13, Craig Douglin 10, Josh Mulvey 6, Steve Sear 5, Mark Roby 5, Mark Hill 3, Lars Balcomb, Sam Eldridge, Eric Douglin, Dan Coppen, Joe Crouch.