The BUPA Coventry Crusaders earned a victory on the road for what seems like the first time in a long time to win away, beating Sutton Pumas  83-69. The Crusaders came out flat and had everyone worried for a minute but once they got it started there was no turning back. The may have looked back a few times which gave the Pumas a chance to catch up, but never within reach of gaining the lead over the Crusaders. 

The game was a bit sloppy on both ends but the Crusaders worked the ball around with their new triangle offence and took good shots both inside and outside.   The half ended with the Crusaders up 11 points 40-29. With Derrick Pope driving inside, dishing out and shooting that sweet 3-point bank shot--the Pumas couldn't keep up.  The Crusaders also saw the old Matt Donaldson that they've longed to see this season.  Matt started this game and was a strong force inside to reckon with as he dove for loose balls and fought for position under the boards.   And then there was Rick Solvason who came away with a game-high 31 points.  The rest of the team contributed to the win which made it a total team effort that everyone was proud of. 

Derrick Pope ended the night with 21 points and Matt Donaldson with 20 points.  "I am pleased with the way we played.  It's difficult having as many road games as we have but that's no excuse.  Winning on the road shows that you are a tough team and circumstances can't stop you from winning.  We're not there yet but we all hope to continue striving for that," says coach Dip Donaldson.

FINAL SCORE: 

BUPA COVENTRY CRUSADERS  83  SUTTON PUMAS 69

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