Sharks have enjoyed some success so far this season, with a league record of 4 wins and 3 losses. Huish Taunton Tigers have yet to lose in the league and they showed why in the first quarter, getting off to an excellent start. They weren’t able to maintain that level though, which made for a frustrating but exciting end to the game as Sharks came storming back to almost take the win.

Taunton outscored Southampton 27 – 15 in the first period with good outside shooting and well-executed offense leading to easy looks close to the basket. Forward Jack Roberts led Tigers with 8 points in the quarter and there was good, unselfish play across the whole team.

In the second quarter the scoring slowed for Tigers with Sharks stepping up their defense. They still won the quarter though, playing strong defense themselves and limiting Southampton to single opportunities with strong rebounding. Heading into half-time Taunton held a comfortable 46 – 28 lead.

In the first half Tigers had enjoyed room to operate and were able to execute their offense. In the third quarter with nothing to lose, Southampton upped their defensive, switching to full court pressure in an effort to get back in the game. The tactic worked as they forced Tigers into mistakes and turnovers, which they were able to convert into points off fast-breaking offense.

With Sharks increasing their pressure and taking away space, Tigers instead of moving the ball and keeping to their system, played right into Southampton’s defense as they began to rely on individuals. Despite the turn around of momentum they were able to maintain their lead 61 – 45, losing the quarter by just 2.

The final quarter turned out very scrappy with Taunton unable to find the hoop on offense and Southampton eating into their lead. Coach Richard Anderson took multiple timeouts to urge for composure but with calls from the officials not going their way they continued to struggle.

With less than 3 minutes remaining, in foul trouble and with their lead almost entirely gone, Sharks trailed by just 2 points. Tigers had thus far failed to make shots in the second half but with the game in the balance guard Igors Kuznecovs pulled up and knocked down a three pointer to give Taunton a 5-point cushion. He followed up with two made three throws as he was fouled on a dribble move to the basket.

Sharks played hard till the end but with the swing of momentum provided by Kuznecovs, Tigers were able to find the composure to close out the game in the remaining minutes. Jack Roberts top scored for Taunton with 23 points. Final score Huish Taunton Tigers 72 – 64 Southampton University Sharks.

Next Saturday (25/11/17) Tigers travel to Surrey Rams for their next Division 4 South West fixture, tip-off 19:00.