Force edged by Phoenix in battling display

Will Hall … unstoppable! Photo by Chris Midgley.

Cheshire opened up the game the strongest as Leeds struggled to find their offensive rhythm early on. Leeds, however, gained their composure and closed out the first quarter strongly with 10 points from Hall. This brought the Phoenix lead down to just 3 points at the end of the period (14-17).

Phoenix continued to use their size advantage as they battled their way to the ring. They controlled the majority of the second period on strong offense from both Aliu and Watt. Force worked hard just to keep them within striking distance and McCann picking 5 second quarter points enabled the home team to stay within 9 points at the half time break (26-35).

Mis-match or what? Photo by Chris Midgley.

The physicality of the game raised in the third period as both teams focused their attention on the interior for their scoring opportunities. Leeds struggled to find the basket and only notched up 11 points in the period. They did however manage to keep the usually productive Phoenix offensive machine to just 13 points also. This gave the Phoenix an 11 point lead as they entered the final quarter (37-48).

Leeds made a push in the opening stages of the final period but Cheshire were always able to keep them at a distance. McCann became provider in the closing minutes as Hall continued to pour in the points. Cheshire countered Leeds intense defensive pressure by spreading the ball and this worked as they ended up 53-65 winners with five players putting up double digit scoring.

Leeds were led by an impressive 23 point and 15 rebound display from Will Hall which was supported by James McCann with 11 points and 5 assists. Taylor King led the visitors with 13 points and 16 rebounds.

Leeds will now move on to next Friday’s Yorkshire derby against Sheffield Sharks. As part of the club’s inaugural season they are taking next Friday’s home game to the University of Huddersfield. The club are keen to reach all corners of West Yorkshire with BBL basketball and a bumper crowd is expected to welcome them to the town’s first ever top flight game. The game tips off at 7:30pm and tickets are available through the club’s website.