[28 SEP 09] CRUSADER NEWS

 Bristol Game

 'Match Reaction'

Coventry Crusaders head coach Scott Neely praised his side’s character and unity after the 56-69 loss to Bristol, in a game where eight man Crusaders fought back from a 14 point half time deficit to make Bristol’s over subscribed squad fight all the way to secure victory. 

Crusaders captain John Olinger was also singled out for leading the team’s fight back in the third with his attacking urgency and five 3 pointers, which reduced the deficit to three points and put the home side in a position to take the game to Bristol. 

“I was especially proud of how the team held their defensive consistency for most of the match” Neely said.

“They helped each other well and there is still room for improvement, but I was happy with the starting point”. 

Following a cautious and energised first quarter with neither team wanting to give much away, the second proved to be frustrating for the Crusaders attack as was the fourth quarter, with the two periods of play giving Coventry just 17 points. 

“Offensively we must improve our screening and recognition of opportunities, but it’s not surprising considering it was the first match with no friendlies played” said the philosophical head coach. 

“We will continue to add offensive sets which will also help players recognise consistent reads of the defence and how to best take advantage”. 

The third quarter saw a rejuvenated Coventry side who showed that they knew what they had to do to get back into the game, with the captain oozing infectious shooting confidence which sprung Dave Edden, Simon Payne and Will Bastin into two point action to help achieve a short lived 51-49 in the final minute of the third quarter. 

“The players really came out focussed and showed that they weren’t going to go down without a fight. John Olinger was outstanding the whole match but he really shot the ball well during this stretch and led the charge back into the match with his hard work during the summer months evident”.  

“His input is crucial. He is our captain and does many intangibles that many fans don’t recognise so we are really excited to have him with us this season”. 

Neely also revealed that try outs will be taking place for the first team this week, most likely to involve three university students that were due to come over by the end of this month, meaning it’s probable that new additions will be in place for the Crusaders’ next National Trophy home game against Taunton Tigers on October 10^th. 

“We have a few players trying out this week so it will depend upon how that does” he confirmed..

(Adam Manning, Crusaders Reporter)

  Main Menu | News | Bristol Game Reaction  28 SEPT 2009