Charnwood Warriors edged out in thriller
CHARNWOOD WARRIORS maintained top spot in the National Premier League depite a rare defeat on Sunday.
The Warriors played host to Exeter in their first home match of 2020 and slipped to a narrow 46-43 defeat.
Going into the match Warriors knew the match would be tough and missing five members of the squad it was an opportunity for some youngsters to make an impression.
The first quarter was evenly matched with both teams finding their feet, warriors GS Braithwaite settled into the team nicely but at the end of the first quarter it was the visitors who held a narrow 11-10 lead.
The second quarter was also even matched as the Warriors defence of McGlynn, Hymas and Oakham worked tirelessly. Further up the court Alexander and Griffin linked well and edged Warriors ahead
22-21.
In the third quarter Exeter stepped the pace up again and a strong defensive performance coupled with a potent attack saw Exeter end the third quarter with a six point advantage leading 37-31.
Warriors came out firing in the final qurter turning ball and reduced the deficit to one goal as the game entered the final five minutes but Exeter’s super GS and rapid WA and WD were having none of it and found their composure and connection to finish the match off and take the win 46-43.
Despite the defeat the Warriors still sit at the top of the table on 53 points, eight points ahead of their nearest rivals Thoroughbreds as well as having a game in hand.
But Sam Griffin’s team will be looking to get back on track when they are at home against Norfolk United on February 2.