Tigers got off to a good start offensively, looking to get inside looks early against the smaller Gloucester team. The strategy would pay off in the end but Saxons stayed close with 3 made three-pointers in the first quarter.

In the second quarter Huish Tiger’s U18 player Harry Stacpoole made his debut into senior men’s basketball, coming off the bench to a warm reception from the home supporters. Saxons shot and made another three-pointer early in the period but Tiger’s started to find their rhythm, playing good defence and scoring efficiently.

Another player making his debut for Tigers was Chris Alexander who contributed 15 points in the game from strong moves close to the basket. The combination of Alexander, Boult, Schroeder and Roberts inside proved too much for Saxons. Tim Gumbs chipped in 5 points in the quarter with a strong drive and made three-pointer. The half finished with a 9 point lead for Taunton, 37 – 28.

The third quarter was Taunton’s best, with scoring coming from a variety of players. It was their defense that was key however, limiting Gloucester to just 12 points. At the end of the period with time expiring, Stacpoole shot from long range and watched it go in as the buzzer sounded for half time, to the delight of the crowd.

Gloucester Saxons are a team with pride and spirit and they would not let the game go without a fight. In the final quarter they outscored Tigers 23 – 16, making 5 three-pointers. Tigers got good play out of forwards Schroeder and Alexander but struggled at times with mistakes and turnovers. The scoring burst from Saxons in the fourth wasn’t enough to overcome the lead built up by Tigers over the game and they held on to win 74 – 63.

Next Sunday (12/11/17), Taunton will host division 3 Solent Kestrels II, in the third round of the National Shield at Richard Huish College. Up for grabs is a place in the quarter finals. Tip-off 17:00.