Having lost narrowly to United at home, the Tigers players were keen to make amends and also bounce back from last week’s disappointing loss to Southampton. London United were unfortunately not able to field the same team as before, having lost two players to their Division 2 side.

Mark Schroeder and Chris Alexander started the game well, scoring the first 14 points for Taunton. Alexander went on to score 17 in the first quarter and finished with a game-high 27. London started the match by trading baskets with Tigers as they took advantage of turnovers from pressure defence and unforced errors. Midway through the period however Tigers began to make the most of their size and experience.

Strong rebounding at the offensive end led to second chance opportunities that were finished with confidence. Tigers were able to run their offence with ease and they executed well. London were limited to tough shots and no second chances thanks to excellent team defence and rebounding. By half time Tigers had built up a commanding lead, 25 – 53.

Receiving another call up from the Under 18s, Casey Williams once again played with confidence and showed excellent composure in senior competition, finishing with12 points, including 2 three-pointers. At the other end of the age spectrum, veteran Robin Boult put his experience to good use, also adding 12 points from strong moves around the basket.

In the second half, United switched to a zone defence but were unable to stem the Tigers offence. Alexander poured in another 10 points in the third and three-pointers from Williams and Tim Gumbs effectively put the game out of reach for London.

London enjoyed a run of good shooting in the final quarter, knocking down 4 three-pointers but it was not enough, as Taunton finished with a 30-point period. A well-rounded performance from Taunton saw all 10 players get on the score sheet.

Top scorers for Taunton were Alexander with 27, Schroeder with 17 and both Williams and Boult with 12. D. Mills led the way for London with 20 points, V. Olavewin finished with 18 and A. Khidi with 10.

Despite the win Tigers fall back to second place in the league behind Bristol with just 1 game remaining. Their final league game will take place next Saturday (31/03/18) away to Thames Valley Cavaliers II.

Tigers Juniors

Back at Richard Huish College an epic day of basketball concluded with a gruelling battle between Tigers U18’s and Bristol Flyers. Despite a great effort, Tigers lost by 6 points 68 – 72.