Rnd 17: South Adelaide Men too strong in a high scoring affair

By Sam Phillips

South Adelaide Panthers 101 | Central Districts Lions 93

In a match that exceeded expectations, South Adelaide prevailed 101-93 in what was an open and entertaining contest last Saturday night.

Centrals made the most of early open chances from outside the arc, with both Luke Frost and Ramiah Simpson (16 pts) banking 2 three pointers each for the quarter. Adrien Coleman was typically prominent for South, collecting 7 points in the first.

Nelson Larkins was tenacious and drove hard to the basket, using his speed to put pressure on the South defence.

The Lions did find themselves in the bonus, but shot poorly at the line. Coach Bobby Cunningham was clearly frustrated, even providing a Bronx cheer after one finally went in. Centrals held a slim 5 point advantage at the first change, 27-22.

The second quarter was a tense one as the fouls tallied up, seeing both sides in the bonus before too long.

Frost carried on his good work, attacking the key and recording 12 points for the half. Accurate shooting from Simpson and Angus Fischer, who didn’t miss from the field, helped the Lions maintain their advantage as pace of the game increased.

South however continued to press Centrals, finding more of the ball as Steve Pilkington battled hard under the rim with 10 points and 6 rebounds in the first half. Back to back three’s from long range specialist Ryan Gardiner cut the margin to just 2 points before Centrals scored a quick couple to lead by 6 at the main break.

South Adelaide looked to pick up where they left off, capitalising on Lions turnovers. Coleman and Gardiner were again instrumental but Centrals big men Angus Fischer and Joseph Campbell were matching them. Fischer was lively and quickly picked off a loose pass helping Centrals tie up proceedings midway through the quarter.

Once again fouls weren’t at a premium as the ball went coast to coast but not in the usual fashion, with both teams having numerous opportunities at the line. Coleman showed great determination late on, stealing the ball and weaving through traffic, ensuring South held a 3 point lead- 73-70 at the last change.

In a game that always felt too close to call, Centrals refused to give up without a fight, down by just 2 late in the last after some important defensive plays. South Adelaide to their credit however, showed a strong determination to close out the match with a Coleman three pointer putting the game beyond reach in the final minute. Thomas McKenzie played a great second half, with 12 points and 6 rebounds, whilst Coleman (28 pts, 7 rebounds and received 12 fouls) and Gardiner (25 pts) collected over 50 points between them. Frost (21 pts, 6 rebounds) and Fischer (17 pts, 7 rebounds) were best for a gallant Lions outfit that have been better than their record suggests this season.

Round 18: Saturday, 23 July at 8:15pm

Central Districts Lions v Forestville Eagles @ Starplex

Eastern Mavericks v South Adelaide Panthers @ Adelaide Hills




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