The 12:30 tip-off time made for an early start for the travelling Tigers and despite arriving in Henley On Thames in good time, they struggled early, getting off to a slow start. Oxford were the more confidant team in the first quarter but they too had issues on offense. The low scoring first quarter ended 14 – 9 to the home side.

In the second quarter Tigers were able to get to grips with the opposition’s zone defense and draw fouls inside. Tigers Under 18 player Casey Williams made four three-pointers in the first half and showed excellent composure throughout the game in the point-guard position.

With Oxford in team fouls Taunton went to the free-throw line 8 times in the period. Mark Schroeder contributed 6 points with strong moves around the basket and made free throws. Coach Richard Anderson urged his team to stay calm and Tigers were able to reduce their turnovers, leading to a 4-point lead at the half.

Early in the second half Taunton extended their lead to 10. Guard Tim Gumbs contributing 5 with a made drive and three-pointer. Towards the end of the third quarter however, Oxford enjoyed a run of 6 unanswered points and reduced their deficit to just 7. Tigers were still able to win the quarter though and the score heading into the final quarter was 43 — 50.

Taunton gained in confidence throughout the game and by the fourth quarter were in control. Oxford weren’t able to extend their third quarter run and struggled to get much going offensively against an improved Tigers defense.

Casey Williams added to his tally with another 6 in the fourth, finishing with 24 points and leading all scorers. Chris Alexander also contributed 6 points in the quarter, including a rim wrecking two-handed dunk to the delight of his teammates.

Final score Oxford City Hoops 57 – 73 Huish Taunton Tigers. Next weekend (Saturday 13th January) Tigers host RCT Gladiators at Richard Huish College, tip-off 18:00.

In other NBL Division 4 SW games this weekend Oxford Steelers defeated London United at home 78 — 73 and Thames Valley Cavaliers II beat Gloucester Saxons at home by a huge margin 99 – 51.