By Connor Rice

Southern Tigers 72 | North Adelaide Rockets 46

Coming off their first loss of the season to the Flames last week, it seemed as if the Tigers were out to make a statement at home last Saturday. Still without key forward, Mitch Creek the Tigers were always going to be tested especially against the length of the Rockets.

The game was close from the outset and the Tigers couldn’t get out and run like they usually do with the scores neck and neck at the end of the first. A massive 10 point quarter by Jordan Dodman aided the Tigers’ effort in keeping them afloat for what was quite a limited offensive quarter. This remained the same case for the second quarter as the Rockets were making tough outside shots and crashing the glass. The Tigers struggled to find their usual offensive prowess and this is really what kept the scoreboard so tight going into the half time break.

Following the half time break, Alex Starling came out with a real aggression attacking the rim and reeking havoc on the offensive boards. The inside presence of the Tigers was a huge turning point as the Rockets struggled to stop their onslaught inside. Some nice production from Daniel Peacock helped too as he did work in the post with a nice series of moves to fake out the Rockets’ defenders.

A key emphasis in the Tigers victory was their stifling defense on Luke Mapunda. Averaging a double-double for the season, Mapunda has been a versatile player and has put up some great numbers. On Saturday night he finished with just 3 points total. A combination of great rim protection to stop any looks by the Tigers bigs and some daring perimeter defense really neutralised his impact.

In the last two games it has been obvious in terms of sheer offensive fluidity and versatility that the Tigers are definitely missing Mitch Creek. His 20+ ppg production and ability to move the ball for his size has been what has made the Tigers so potent. Without Creek, players like Starling, Peacock and Dodman have been able to hold the Southern boys in good stead. This is a testament to their depth and should hold them strong for when the full unit is back ready for finals time.

Round 13
North Adelaide v South Adelaide @ Hillcrest, Saturday, 18 June at 8.15pm
Southern Tigers v Eastern Mavericks @ Adelaide Hills, Sunday, 19 June at 3.15pm