Reserve Team Secure Comeback Cup Win in Skyliner Debut

With the 2018/19 season upon us, Bury St. Edmunds Basketball Club’s Suffolk Reserve side had the honour of being the first team to play at Skyliner Sports Centre, as they welcomed Braintree Blue Devils in the pool stage of the Suffolk Cup, with the fixture sponsored by Gascoynes Accountants.

Andreas Van Doorn won the opening tip ahead of a back-and-forth clash against Braintree.

After toiling to a seven point first quarter, the team held their nerve en route to an elating comeback win, 66-57.

Returning Bulldog Neil Thompson was dominant off the bench as he controlled the paint at both ends, while rookie also Jim Walker impressed off the bench in his debut, showing energy and composure beyond his years.

Oli Cowling had plenty to smile about as he continued his long-range form from last season.

However, it was David Wise who led the way in crunch time, scoring eight of his points in the final stanza, as the Bulldogs played with greater pace and energy to hold their opponents to single digits.

“I couldn’t be prouder of the effort from the guys” said Coach Seb Benford, “everyone contributed to tonight’s result, and it’s a pleasure to get the season started in this way.”

Bulldogs player of the game David Wise led the hosts with 13 points, supported by Ollie Cowling (10) and Jack Collins (7). Braintree’s E. Gonzales was the game’s highest scorer with 15 points.

Veteran pivot Neil Thompson heaped praise on Wise, saying “he was brave down the stretch, driving to draw a number of fouls that helped us secure the win.” Thompson added “it was great to pull the Bulldogs jersey on again, and to start the season the right way.”

Veterans Neil Thompson & David Wise led the way for the Reserves against Braintree.

Wise, however, was quick to deflect the attention saying “It was a balanced, well-disciplined team performance, especially in the final quarter where some key tactical changes from Coach Benford helped us to get a hard-earned win.”

Coach Seb Benford with the Bulldogs Player of the Game, David Wise.

Up next for the Bulldogs is the club’s first ever Casino Night at the Moreton Hall Community Centre on 5th October. For tickets or more information, visit www.burybasketball.com.

Upcoming Fixtures:

• 12th October - First Team @ Clacton (Cup)

• 14th October - First Team vs. Saxons (Cup)

• 17th October - Cambs Reserves @ Huntingdon

• 19th October - Suffolk Reserves @ Clacton