Experience proves the key for TN

MEN’S BASKETBALL

TEAM Northumbria men’s basketball ensured they ended 2017 on a high after a hardfought victory against Kent Crusaders.

It was an end-to-end spectacle with nothing between the two sides heading into the fourth quarter.

However, experienced heads prevailed - TN securing a 75-68 win.

The victory meant TN head of men’s basketball Marc Steutel could leave Sport Central with a smile on his face heading into 2018.

He said: “It is pleasing to close out 2017 with a win.

“We played really well in the first half in most aspects and it felt like a complete performance.

“We were sharing the ball, playing at our tempo and guarding really well.

“We reinforced our focus for the second half but Kent played really well and disrupted our rhythm a little.

“Credit to them for competing how they did, which set up an exciting fourth quarter.

“Ultimately I was really pleased with our approach down the stretch and we made some key plays to take the win.”

Steutel added: “Malcolm Smith (pictured) proved again why he is the reigning MVP as he carried us offensively.

“I was particularly pleased with Blayne Freckleton and Lewis Champion getting 15 rebounds between them.

“We are looking forward to a well-earned break over Christmas before competing in the second half of the season.”

Steutel’s words were echoed by Jack Preston, who was proud of the maturity TN showed in the fourth quarter while also looking towards the future.

He said: “We played a really good first half and showed what we are capable of.

“Our experience in the fourth quarter really helped us and we were the more mature side and that showed in our decisionmaking at the end of the game.

“Any time you can finish the year with a win is a positive.”