Northumbria puts paid to Carnegie’s perfect start

Both team’s started slowly as they looked to restrict each other’s offensive threats.  This led to the Carnegie holding a narrow 1 point lead at the end of the first quarter.  The second period saw Northumbria step up their offensive game and whilst still maintaining a strangle hold on Leeds.  By the half time break Northumbria had secured a 4 point lead.

Both teams emerged for the third quarter energised and offensively minded.  Carnegie was able to reduce Northumbria’s lead to 2 points by the end of the period.  This was not enough though as Northumbria hit their top offensive gear in the closing minutes scoring 28 point in the final quarter and securing a 12 point victory and maintaining their chance of qualification for the competition’s knock out stages.

Carnegie’s scoring was led by Branimir Mikulic with 20 points supported by 17 points from Josh McGinn.  Leading the scoring for Northumbria was guard Sean Clifford with 29 points.

Carnegie Head Coach Matt Newby wasn’t happy with his side’s performance saying “It was always going to be a tough trip to the North East and as usual Coach Marc Steutel had his team well organised.  They out performed us in important categories including their defensive effort and their work on the boards. 

Highlights for them were the performances of former Carnegie player Sean Clifford and former Bradford Dragons player Ricky Fetske. 

The positive that we can take from the game is that in the absence of Jack Stannard due to illness Josh McGinn was handed more responsibility and performed very well.  He is returning to the level that we know he is capable of and will play an important part for us this season.”

Carnegie will now be focused on their must win game next weekend against Westminster Warriors.  The game is at Leeds Metropolitan University Sports Arena on their Headingley Campus and tips off at 7:30pm.  Tickets cost £6 for adults, £3 for concessions and £15 for a family (2+2) ticket.  Tickets are available through the club’s website www.leedscarnegiebasketball.co.uk or on the door.

Story & Main Photo – Leeds Carnegie