Tigers started with intent and kept the offensive tempo high. Miko Makowski and Alex Potter opening with back to back 3 pointers. The visitors however had the same idea with Saxons Avinante and Farrell making their own 3-point shots. The 1st quarter quickly turned into a long-range shooting competition, Potter hitting 5 from 5 only to be matched by Avinante. The 1st quarter saw 14 3-pointers made across both teams to end the period tied at 31 points.

The scoring slowed in the second quarter with tigers finding success inside through Matt Cuthbert. However, Tigers defence was letting them down allowing Gloucester’s Farrell & Boyd to capitalise with easy points. Halftime found Tigers down by two 53 – 51.

The third saw the scoring slow further with both sides limited to 12 points each. Makowski and Ryan Parker-Bowker keeping the scoreboard moving. With Tigers still making defensive errors Saxons Farrell did the same for the visitors adding to his game high of 18 points. Tigers ended the quarter still 2 points off the lead.

Some inspiring words from Coach Matt Nolan saw the Tigers come out in the 4th with added purpose. Again, Potter and Makowski showing their offensive skills and Gloucester seemingly not having an answer to them. As good as the offensive on display it was the defensive effort from Taunton that really lifted the crowd and limited the visitors to just 3 points.

A huge team effort meant Saxons had no way through and had to settle for poor shot choices. The game was halted briefly after Potter was deliberately brought down by Hancox and another Saxons player (Kvedas) charged in seemly looking to make the contest a physical one. After Coach Nolan made his feeling clear the referees decided that Kvedas would play no further part and was asked to leave the game.

The game restarted with Potter hitting 2 free throws adding to his game high 28 and Miko hitting yet another 3-pointer to finish the game with 29 points.

An amazing game that kept the 100 plus spectators and players on the edge of their seats. Tigers 4th quarter efforts saw them close out the game comfortable winners 96 – 68.

Taunton Tigers next home fixture will take place on Saturday 30th November when they host Dorset Storm at Richard Huish College, tip-off 6pm.