Flyers got off to a quick start going on a 12 – 0 run to start the game. David Mann scored 10 of those for Bristol, including 2 three-pointers. Undeterred, Tigers kept their composure and were able to bounce back quickly, mounting a run of their own during which they reclaimed the lead. The score at the end of the first quarter was Flyers 20 – 27 Tigers.

Taunton kept the momentum in the second quarter with guard Alex Potter leading the way, shooting well from behind the 3-point line and mixing it up with strong cuts to the basket. Liam Vickery also made an impact coming off the bench for Tigers, scoring inside and knocking down an open 3-point shot.

Half way through the second quarter, with Tigers extending their lead to 16 (28 – 44), Flyers went on another run, capitalizing on the Tigers team foul count. Attacking the basket they were able to draw fouls, going to the free-throw line 8 times in the period. Flyers steadily reduced the deficit as Tigers scoring dried up, the first half coming to a close with scores tied at 46 – 46.

In the second half Curtly Fergusson continued his good play from the first half for Bristol, making steals and scoring on the fast break. Tigers had a slow start to the third until Mark Schroeder found his range, scoring 8 points in a row. However, Flyers answered back and continued to get good looks driving to the basket. The third quarter ended Flyers 66 – 61 Tigers.

In the final quarter, with key players in foul trouble, Tigers were unable to find consistent scoring and struggled to contain Flyers who continued to attack the basket and move the ball well. The match finished 85 – 78.

Fergusson finished with 20 points and 12 rebounds for Flyers whilst David Mann and Stephen Foard finished with 17 and 16 points respectively. Alex Potter top scored for Tigers with a game-high 25 points and 7 rebounds. Mark Schroeder scored 16 points for Tigers and Liam Vickery added 14.

Next week Taunton will travel to Bristol again to face Bristol Hurricanes in the first round of the National Shield. Their first league match is the following week, away to Surrey Rams. Their first home fixture will be on Saturday 20th October when they host Gloucester Saxons at Richard Huish College, 19:00. Their full fixture list can be seen here.