By Jake Stoubos

Sturt Sabres 82 | South Adelaide Panthers 69

In the first round of the 2016 Premier League, Sturt walked into Marion Stadium well prepared and claimed a hard earned 82-69 victory over South Adelaide.

The match was tight right from the start with both teams looking like they brought their a-game and keeping it point-for-point right up until half time.

Sturt began to take charge in the second half and displayed aggression and desire, leading by six points in the third and eventually securing the match by 13.

In the end, fast ball movement and capitalising on free throws proved to be the deciding factor with Sturt securing 22 points compared to 12 from South.

Sturt’s Hamish Burns put together an impressive performance finishing with 21 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists. Jan Warbout and Max Calligeros equally entered double digit territory, Warbout with 15 points, 12 rebounds and Calligeros with 12 points, 7 rebounds. Tim Klaosen committed 6 turnovers but finished with 8 points, 10 rebounds and 3 assists.

Ryan Gardner ended the match as the top scorer for South Adelaide with 26 points, five of which were 3 pointers, while Shane Boal was the only other South player to score double-digits with 15 points.

Sturt will no doubt have much to be happy about with their first round performance, while South will be looking to bounce back when they face Forestville next week.

Round 2: Friday, 18 March at 8.15pm

Sturt Sabres VS Central District Lions at Pasadena

South Adelaide Panthers VS Forestville Eagles at Wayville