West Adelaide Bearcats (77) defeated Forestville Eagles (72)

The West Adelaide Bearcats are still in the finals hunt after they defeated the Forestville Eagles in the men’s elimination final, ending the Eagles’ premiership chances.

The Eagles started the game strongly and got off to an early lead but the Bearcats dominated the later part of the first quarter, taking a five point lead into quarter time. Like West Adelaide did in the first term, the Eagles were able to regain the lead ahead of halftime. The Bearcats dominated the second half and managed to build a lead that, despite their efforts, the Eagles couldn’t overcome.

The Eagles won the rebounds count, 43 to 39, but the Bearcats’ edge was via free throw opportunities. West Adelaide went to the line on 26 occasions, converting 18, while the Eagles only had 13 opportunities but made 11.

Forestville also had three more turnovers than West Adelaide (16 to 13) but managed to collect two more points from West’s errors.

Jason Dawson was one of the stars for the Bearcats with a game high of 24 points, as well as eight rebounds, two assists and two steals. He was closely followed by Blake Truslove with 16 points, three assists and three steals. Truslove also used his height to collect nine rebounds. Kurtis Phillips also recorded nine rebounds and 11 points.

For the Eagles, Jake Rios was the highest scorer with 19 points. He also recorded seven rebounds, two assists and a steal. Their next highest scorer was Kyle Howe-Tipene with 18 points. Howe-Tipene also recorded a team high nine rebounds as well as three assists and a steal. Trent Fildes also collected 16 points.

By Samantha Thomas