Forestville Eagles (82) lost to West Adelaide Bearcats (88)

The West Adelaide Bearcats defeated the Forestville Eagles by six points in double overtime in the replay of last year’s Grand Final at Wayville on Saturday night.

The Eagles were in front for most of game after a strong start thanks to sharp shooter Jake Rios.

After being down by seven points at three quarter time, the Bearcats dominated the last quarter with shooting accuracy, levelling the margin at full time.

During the first overtime period, both sides continued to match each other scoring wise, but the Eagles missed some key free throw opportunities; the scores were 73 a piece, taking the game into double overtime.

The Bearcats were able to capitalise on their shooting opportunities, especially making the most of the free throws, to win the game by six points.

For the Bearcats Jason Dawson and Anthony Spadavecchia scored 22 and 23 points respectively.

Dawson, who fouled out during the first overtime, also had five rebounds and seven assists; Spadavecchia had 11 rebounds and five assits.

204cm Blake Truslove used his height to his advantage, recording 23 rebounds as well as scoring 15 points.

Rios was a star for the Eagles but he unfortunately went down with a left knee injury late in the third quarter and didn’t return to the game.

He was equal highest points scorer, along with teammate Trent Fildes, with 25 points.

Continuing his form from previous games, Fildes was impressive with 16 rebounds.

Kyle Howe-Tipene and Bard Sullivan both scored nine points.

 

By Samantha Thomas

Top Scorers Eagles
Trent Fildes 25
Jake Rios 25
Kyle Howe-Tipene 9

Top Scorers Bearcats
Jason Dawson 23
Anthony Spadavecchia 22
Blake Truslove 15