Taunton got off to a strong start, scoring easily against a Thames Valley team who took a while to get settled. Leading by 10 points at the end of the first quarter, most of their scoring came close to the basket from layups and short-range jump shots. Joe Andrews was the exception, shooting well throughout the game and hitting back-to-back three-pointers in the first.

After the slow start Cavaliers switched to a zone defence causing problems for Tigers initially. Their shots stopped dropping and mistakes started to creep in. Thames Valley meanwhile, gained in confidence, making strong moves inside and knocking down outside shots. The second quarter finished 21 – 19 in their favour.

Having previously pushed their lead to 20, by the end of the first half it was down to 8 points and the Cavaliers were firmly back in the game. Early on in the third however, Taunton bounced back from their second quarter slump.

Jack Roberts and Mark Schroeder combined for 14 points, scoring inside and at the free-throw line. Taunton also improved their defence, holding Thames valley to 13 points in the period. The third quarter proved critical with key Cavalier players finding themselves in foul trouble.

In the final quarter Tigers showed excellent composure to close out the game. With time on their side they looked for long offences to run the clock. Cavaliers battled till the end but when their most effective player left the game with five fouls the result seemed inevitable. Final score, Tigers 83 – 67 Cavaliers.

In this weekends other fixtures in NBL Division 4 South West the home teams all recorded wins. London United defeated Surrey Rams 87 – 76, Oxford City Hoops won against Reading Rockets 90 – 79 and RCT Gladiators beat Gloucester Saxons 87 – 51. Tigers remain top of the table with Bristol Flyers II close behind.

Huish Taunton Tigers now have 2 more home games before the Christmas break. On Saturday 9th December they play third placed London United and the following week (16/12/17) they host Oxford Stealers who currently sit at the bottom of the table. Both games will take place at Richard Huish College, tip-off 18:00. Supporters welcome!