LIAM DURKIN
BASKETBALL
BIG V
By LIAM DURKIN
GIPPSLAND United men handed Mornington its first loss of the Big V season.
A strong first quarter from United set up the path to victory, which eventually saw the scoreboard read 91-70.
United was not overawed playing on Mornington’s home court, putting up 26 points to 18 in the first quarter, before adding another 27 to take a 53-32 lead at the main break, a margin it was able to maintain for the rest of the match. Every United played had an impact in the points’ column, with Brandon Armstrong and Billy Hughes each netting 13.
Kody Tibballs and Jordan Gooiker provided a couple of highlights, nailing two three pointers.
Armstrong also had nine rebounds in what was a strong display from the American import.
The win takes Gippsland United’s record to two wins from three matches.
United sits in fifth place on the ladder, but has a game in hand from most of the teams above it.
GIPPSLAND United women did not enjoy the same success, going down in a tough encounter with Mornington.
An even opening quarter saw United take a one-point lead at the first change, but Mornington was able to control the contest in the second term, piling on 23 points to 13.
United was able to trade blows with Mornington after that, but in doing so, was also unable to bridge the gap.
In the finish, a spirited United lost 75-62,
ensuring Mornington maintained its unbeaten start to the season.
Chloe Hogg was busy for the Gippsland team, netting 21 points, while import Makenzie Miller had 11 of the side’s 51 rebounds. The United women are 2-2 after four rounds to be fourth on the ladder.
Gippsland United women won’t have to wait long for a rematch, as it takes on Mornington again this Saturday at the Gippsland Regional Indoor Sports Stadium.
Tip-off at 6pm.
The men will face a good challenge when it plays top side Altona.
Altona has played two more games than United, and the Gippsland team will be looking to take a scalp.
Tip off for the men is 8pm.
