Mercury (Hobart)

Trimble, Long fire as United waltz past tame Hawks

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ILLAWARRA’S new imports made disappoint­ing NBL debuts as the Hawks went down 94-73 to Melbourne United at the WIN Entertainm­ent Centre on Monday night. Americans Darington Hobson and Billy Preston combined for only seven points (two from 21 from the field) in the game, which saw United return to the winner’s circle after a tough loss to Sydney on Saturday.

United were led by Melo Trimble (22 points, seven rebounds and six assists) and Shawn Long (21 points, 14 rebounds and four blocks).

Chris Goulding (10) and Mitch McCarron (10) both reached double figures.

The Hawks, who were playing without US teen sensation LaMelo Ball (foot) for the second straight game, as well as David Anderson and Sam Froling, were best served by Emmett Naar (16 points), Angus Glover (15) and AJ Ogilvy (13). Despite the additions of Hobson and Preston the Hawks fell behind 19-13 midway through the opening period. That lead was reduced to 25-24 at the end of the first quarter, thanks to a buzzerbeat­ing three-pointer by Hawks guard Naar.

Even though Hobson and Preston struggled from the field, combining to miss their first 10 shots in Hawks colours, the hosts led 40-39 at the main break. United started the second half on an 11-4 run before Preston’s first basket - ending temporaril­y stemmed the flow.

But McCarron’s six points for the term helped the visitors stretch their lead to 66-56 heading into the last.

In the final term, the visitors outscored the Hawks 29-17 to secure their ninth win of the season.

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