The Cromwell Suns continued their winning streak last night against the Snow Park team at Mt Aspiring College. In a game marred by fouls reminiscent of a football match, it was at times brutal.
Snow Park was expected to bring a fierce challenge to the Cromwell side that are on a 3 game winning streak since the first round. They did just that but not until late in the second half.
The Suns got of to a scorching start; on fire in the first half thanks to quality team play including some precision passing, communication, and defence. Somewhat surprisingly, it was the Suns youngsters who lead the charge with rookie Mickey Ritchie hitting one from downtown early on, and 2nd year player Cole Chamberlain banking a couple off the glass ala Tim Duncan. But it was the older Ritchie who displayed some mercurial skills, even Jordan like at times, with his 11 points coming mostly from fast break baskets. Big man Nathan Roberts was back from a sabbatical up north and was typically strong on the boards. As a result the Suns lead the Snow men 24 - 12 at the break.
The second half produced an anticipated comeback from the Snow Park team going on a 10 - 0 run to draw within 3 with about a 4 minutes to play. They pressured the ball from full court and rallied to get some turnovers and were helped by a couple of threes from their star point guard. With 48 seconds to go, Rhys Chamberlain was at the line after drawing a charge and courtesy of the Snow Park team being in the penalty. The pressure told and he missed both to let the opposition have a chance to draw level. But a quick shot by the Snow Park team and yet another rebound by Roberts gave the ball back to Cromwell. A little fake and foul saw Chamberlain at the line yet again to redeem himself and put the game away. He did just that, making both and sealing the win 37 - 34.
For Cromwell the standouts had to be Andy Ritchie and Jonny Roberts. Roberts was consistent with shot selection and calm under pressure. He ran the team well from the point and was a big part of the win. The youngsters Mickey Ritchie and Cole Chamberlain ran well and handled the pressure like experienced vets. All is well for the Suns on their path to the finals.
- Andy Ritchie 11 points
- Jonny Roberts 11 points
- Mickey Ritchie 5 points
- Cole Chamberlain 4 points
- Rhys Chamberlain 4 points
- Nathan Roberts 2 points
