The first time these two teams met back in November, Tigers had to battle hard to get back in the game after a slow start and good outside shooting by the Rams. This time however, at home and in front of a large contingent of supporters, they had no such trouble.

From the tip-off Taunton played with confidence against Surrey’s zone defence. 19 year-old Chris Alexander, who is showing big improvements each game, got to work immediately scoring the first 6 points for Tigers and finishing with 10 in the quarter. Alexander also played a big role at the other end of the floor, with excellent help defence leading to multiple blocked shots.

Rams were unable to get going offensively, managing just 2 field goals in the first quarter which finished 21 – 9. With only 6 players they had limited opportunity to rest whilst Taunton were able to rotate their bench freely and push the pace on court.

With Surreys defence weighted towards the back, Tigers moved the ball well in second quarter, finding open players on the outside. They were able to convert their shots, Paul Yabsley making 3 three-pointers in the quarter and Kevin Anderson adding another.

The highlight of the match came midway through the second when Tigers guard Igors Kuznecovs threw a lob pass to Alexander streaking down the left wing. At first it looked too high but to the joy of the watching supporters Alexander rose up, snatched the ball from the air and threw down his biggest dunk of the season!

In the second half Tigers continued to move the ball well and enjoyed good offensive execution. Joel Harrison, returning from two months in Norway for work, took no time in reacclimatizing and poured in 7 of his 9 points in the third quarter. Mark Schroeder was consistent throughout and efficient with his scoring, finishing the game with 15 points.

Tigers were able to get all players on the score sheet in this well-rounded performance. Yabsley led with 21, including 4 from behind the 3-point line, and Alexander finished with 18 for Taunton. For Rams, J. Loveridge scored 15 points and T. Peters had 12. Final score Taunton Tigers 77 – 43 Surrey Rams.

With 3 league fixtures to go in the season Tigers have secured finishing at least second and a place in the playoffs. Due to Bristol Flyers II losing to Reading Rockets last weekend, Taunton currently sit clear at the top with their 15-win 2-loss record. They will need to win their remaining 3 games to guarantee first place.

Next weekend they have a double-header, travelling to Southampton University Sharks on Saturday and Thames Valley Cavaliers II on Sunday. The following week they are away to London United in their final league game.

Tigers Juniors

Earlier in the day Richard Huish College played host to Gloucester Saxons in under 16s and under 18s competition. Both Tigers junior teams recorded wins with the under 16s boys winning 78 – 46 with a strong team effort and the under 18 men winning 87 – 65.