The showcase match between the Bucs (2nd) and Dragons (3rd) did not disappoint with high level play from both teams on display. During the season the record was split with Dragons winning at home 66 – 65 and Bucs also defending their home court 92 – 58.

Good long-range shooting from Bucs in the first quarter (4 made three-pointers field goals), was matched by Dragons 2-point shot making (8 made field goals) and the scores were tied at the end of the period, 17 a piece.

In the second, Dragons increased their defensive pressure and looked to be heading into the break with a 5 point lead but Kuznecovs had other plans, knocking down a buzzer beater from half-court, leaving Dragons with a narrow 2 point lead at half-time. Buc 32 – 34 Dragons. Saltmerys, Siwicki and Veale shared the offensive load for Dragons in the first half with 6 points each whilst R. Anderson and Botelho provided 7 and 6 respectively for Bucs.

The third quarter was where Bucs did their damage scoring 28 and limiting Dragons to 11. Kuznecovs led the charge for Bucs with 11 points in the period, including a run of 7 straight, two made free-throws, a 3-pointer and a steal leading to a converted fastbreak layup.

Dragons were facing a 15 point deficit heading into the final period but responded well with 8 points unanswered to start the quarter. Timely shot-making from Celeste (6 points in the quarter, 10 overall) brought Dragons to within 7, leaving the score 60 – 53.

However Dragons found themselves in foul-trouble and Bucs used this to their advantage, forcing repeated trips to the free-throw line, slowing the momentum and helping regain their composure on defence. Back-to-back 3-point baskets from Nurse down the stretch sealed the deal. The final quarter ended 11 – 12 in favour of Dragons but earlier work from Bucs secured the win.

Botelho and Kuznecovs led the scoring for Bucs with 16 points each, closely followed by R. Anderson who had 14. Saltmerys led scorers for Dragons with 12 points whilst Celeste and Veale provided 10 each.

Commiserations to Dragons who enjoyed a successful 22/23 season finishing 3rd in league competition with a 9 win, 5 loss record. Congratulations to Bucs who advance to the Playoff Final where they await the winners of the second Playoff Semi-final due to take place next week (19/05/23) between league winners Bridgwater Blackhawks and last year’s League and Playoff Champions Huish Tigers who finished 4th.

The Playoff Final will take place on Wednesday 24th May at Richard Huish College, 19:45.