Falcons run leaders close in Calderdale

THE only game scheduled at home last weekend for Stockport Basketball club, was the Falcons Under 18s which was called off, leaving all the interest with the Senior teams on the road.

The Falcons travelled to Calderdale to take on the League Leaders on Saturday, and the Lapwings travelled to Derby to play against the Ladyblazers. Anticipating a tough reception from Calderdale Explorers, who have sat in top spot all season, the Falcons travelled with their strongest team knowing they had to bring their ‘A’ game with them, in order to compete favourably.

A strong first quarter saw the Falcons ease in to a shallow six point lead, which was reduced by one on half time to 37-32.

A sluggish third quarter cost Stockport their lead and ultimately the game, as they went into the final 10 minutes play, behind 50-54.

A tough never say die attitude from the Falcons produced a thriling final period, and with some cleaver use of their time outs, they kept within a basket of taking the game into overtime.

Unfortunately they failed twice in the final seconds of the game to tie up the scores and finally went down 74-77.

Once more narrowly on the wrong side of a close result, it reflected a much improved team performance since the start of the season, particularly in attitudes and skill level, and, in spite of the score, there were many positives to take out of the game.

Howard lead the scoring with 14 points, Plummer and Travis were in close support with 13 points each.

Next week the Falcons travel again, this time to play Cheshire Wire.

The Lapwings’ game in Derby against the Ladyblazers produced a fairly even start with the local side taking a two point lead into the second quarter.

Derby had opened with a full court press which found them committing a considerable number of fouls, and Stockport benefited, dropping only one point out of twelve.

In to the second quarter Stockport moved into a 29-21 point lead due to some strong driving and easy pickups under the basket.

A tactical change in their defensive strategy, dropping from a man to a zone, cost Stockport as they proved easy pickings for Derby’s three point shooters, and they changed ends a point behind on 32-33.

Stockport struggled defensively in the third quarter, but remained in contention through some good play from Lucas and Gregory.

In to the final quarter the Lapwings put on a full court press and good hustling and quick hands from Macready and Hughes had its desired effect, and then calls against Lucas and a Technical Foul cost the Lapwings four points at a crucial point in the game.

That left Stockport behind 50-57, and with time running against them the were unable to make up the ground, and finished 63-71 points down.

Butters again led the scoring with 22 points and Stansfield [9], Collins [8] and Macready [8] were in support.

Next week they travel again also, going this time to Bury to play Lancashire Spinners.