Warriors defeat T-Birds

Warragul Warriors have jumped to fifth on the CBL Gippsland ladder after a thrilling 85-80 victory over the undefeated Traralgon T-Birds on Saturday night.

The men’s team, inspired by a pre-game honour to past player and coach Mike Santo, came from behind to complete a win to remember in round seven.

With just two rounds remaining, Warriors are aiming for a top four finish.

Warriors started strongly with Marko Kulas on fire, shooting the first five points for his team and dominating in the rebound contests.

The T-Birds blew some chances with wild passes and Warriors took advantage. At quarter time, they led 18-12.

Bouncing back in the second, the T-Birds halted the Warriors’ drive into the key whilst scoring nine unanswered points to take the lead. Inaccuracy proved costly as the Warriors trailed 34-41 at half-time.

Special mention to Traralgon’s Frazer Brouns who, after inspiring his team’s comeback, nailed a full-court shot upon half-time that was cruelly just beaten by the buzzer.

The third quarter was a battle. Jarryd Moss was providing plenty of leadership as well as three pointers as the Warriors worked hard to level the score.

Heading into the last, Warriors were down but still in it at 55-64.

The last quarter was simply sensational from the Warriors, with youngster Riley Morehu stepping up from the edge of the circle and Jayden McMillin proving a handful.

The 30-16 quarter gave the Warriors a much-needed victory with only two rounds remaining.

Kulas top scored with 21 points, Morehu scored four three-pointers on his way to 18 points, and Moss and McMillin both chipped in with 15.

Brouns and Christian D’Angelo topped the T-Birds scoring with 24 apiece, with Kody Tibballs sinking 23 points.

In the women’s, Warragul Warriors certainly impressed the big crowd despite the 67-75 final scoreline.

Lining up against the second ranked T-Birds, the two teams played a close first half. At halftime, Warriors trailed 34-36.

The Warriors got the upper hand in the third, gaining the lead to be 52-48 up at the last break.

It was neck-and-neck for much of the last before the T-Birds pulled away late. The Warriors are now sixth on the CBL women’s ladder.

Bec Orwin was outstanding with 30 points, assisted by Shanara Notman shooting 12 and Jasmyn Short 10.

Samantha Labros scored 31 points for the T-Birds.

Warragul Warriors will play its round eight fixture against Pakenham Warriors at the Warragul Leisure Centre on Sunday afternoon.

The women’s game will start at 1pm, followed by the men’s game at 3pm. Admission is $5 for adults and free for children.