Marlins prove they can handle the Heat
BASKETBALL CAIRNS Marlins might have turned the corner after its 19point win against Townsville Heat at the Fish Tank.
The Marlins avenged last year’s grand final and a 10point loss to their northern rivals two weeks ago in a display which left coach Jamie O’Loughlin optimistic of his team’s long term prospects.
“It was a good follow-up to last week’s games, we took on some of the areas we improved in that game and we dealt with our lack of intensity,” he said. “It doesn’t mean there won’t be fluctuations during games – you aspire to play the perfect game – but our general mood in the group was much better.”
Christian Jurlina topscored for the home side with 21 points, while retired Taipan Alex Loughton (18), Anthony Fisher (17) and Fabijan Krslovic (11) all hit double figures.
Peter Crawford led Townsville with 23 points, including four three-pointers, though Matthew Rees (14) was the only other Heat player to hit double figures.
Before tip-off, O’Loughlin spoke of how he wanted his side to lift its efforts in defence.
While there is still room to improve, the Marlins responded in front of its home crowd.
Jaylan Bin Tahal only got one minute of court time in his small return from an ankle injury. His brief appearance was to contribute to his side’s defence and ensure his ankle was up to the task. Tommy Hamilton may return this week but must first get through the week’s training block.
The Marlins will this week face Rockhampton and Gladstone, two very different challenges but two games the Marlins want to win to maintain their push to the top of the QBL table.
Meanwhile, the Dolphins’ tough start continued in their 14-point loss to the Flames.
Angela Tompkins topscored for the Dolphins with 28 points and 17 rebounds and Shaneice Swain added 15 points, but it was a tough night for Cairns who shot just 33 per cent from the field.
The Dolphins have now lost five straight games and sit second-last with a 1-7 record.