The journey to the South East must have had an affect on the Tigers players as they got off to a slow start. Surrey meanwhile, came out firing. They started the first quarter with three consecutive three-pointers, followed by another to end it, scoring 17 to Taunton’s 11.

In the second, Surrey continued to shoot well from outside, hitting another three three-pointers and playing clinical offense. Defensively they had a lot of success pressuring Tigers, forcing mistakes, which led to turnovers.

As the game progressed, however Taunton began to find their feet. They won the second quarter 18 – 20 with most of their scoring coming from moves close to the basket and from the free throw line. Surrey’s style of defense left little room for error and Tigers took advantage, drawing inevitable fouls on their way to the basket.

At half time Surrey’s lead had been reduced to 4 points with Taunton fighting hard to get back in the game. Their effort and smart play paid off in the third quarter when they brought the score line back in their favour. Robin Boult was effective throughout the game with Surrey unable to defend his skillful moves in the post.

Throughout the third and fourth quarters Taunton played much improved team defense, limiting Surrey to tough shots. With some of the Rams players having to sit out due to foul trouble, Tigers forced the issue with increased pressure of their own led by guard Igors Kuznecovs. Turnovers followed and Tigers held Surrey to 11 points in the third period to their own 15.

In the fourth quarter Tigers made full use Surrey’s foul trouble with Joe Andrews getting to the free throw line 3 times in addition to two made three-pointers. He finished with a game high 21 points.

With 5 minutes remaining Taunton had built a comfortable lead and were showing excellent poise on defense, improving on the previous quarter by allowing Surrey just 9 points. They also had their best quarter offensively scoring 25. The game finished Rams 55 – 71 Tigers.

Coach Anderson was pleased to come away with another hard fought win,

We faced a tough opponent today in Surrey Rams. They played hard and shot the ball well. I was happy with our composure as the game went on and the spirit we showed to get back into the game after a slow start. There is plenty of room for improvement but we’re learning how to win games even when things don’t go our way.

Huish Taunton Tigers now have a three-game home stand in the run up to Christmas, starting next Saturday (02/12/17) when they play Thames Valley Cavaliers II. The following Saturday (09/12/17) they face London United. Then on Saturday 16th they host Oxford Stealers. All home games are at Richard Huish College at 18:00.