Ipswich Topcats 94 Newham Youngbloods 97 YOUNGBLOODS under-15s captured the Southern Division Two title with a nerve-wracking three-point win over the Ipswich Topcats on Sunday. The game begin as a physical affair with the Ipswich side controlling the re

Ipswich Topcats 94

Newham Youngbloods 97

YOUNGBLOODS under-15s captured the Southern Division Two title with a nerve-wracking three-point win over the Ipswich Topcats on Sunday.

The game begin as a physical affair with the Ipswich side controlling the rebounds at both ends of the court.

Topcats ended the first quarter with a seven-point lead, but Youngbloods rallied as scoring contributions from Dominic Norton and John Balaquidan steadied the team.

The hosts kept up the pressure though and their height advantage proved the difference as they were nine points in front at half time.

However, the Topcats just kept on steaming ahead despite the defence in place and using their giants to break through Youngbloods defence and by half time, the Topcats found themselves ahead by nine points.

It looked like game over, when Ipswich had a 15-point lead, but Youngbloods managed to reduce that to nine by the end of the third quarter.

The home side sprinted out of the blocks and opened up a 20-point lead, but led by Jeryl Caby, the visitors started their fight back.

Heading into the final minute, the scores were tied, but the visitors had found their rhythm and were now six points ahead with 20 seconds to go.

Some excellent ball retention from Youngbloods meant they left with both the win and the title.

Coach Caroline Charles said: "It was as though I watched a group of fine young boys mature in front of me. They willingly took instruction and gave it their best without any reservations.

"I'm very happy for the team who have never experienced such a come back after being down by so many points. I'd like to thank all of the players and everybody that got us to the point and all of the parents for their time and patience."

London Warriors 56

Newham Youngbloods 66

YOUNGBLOODS under-15s showed tremendous nerve to win this close encounter on Saturday.

With both sides trading baskets, Youngbloods struggled to find their rhythm, but the Newham side edged their way in front thanks to Jeryl Cabey.

Warriors always threatened to push ahead of Youngbloods with some fine offensive play, but the visitors managed to hold on.

Coach Caroline Charles admitted afterwards her side had been lucky to win.

"It was our worst game of the season, we were very fortunate to leave with a win as the Warriors team did well to take away our control of the game.