Lancaster 75 – 34 Chester
The Lancaster Basketball men’s first’s saw off a poor University of Chester team to wrap up a perfect league season. In beating Chester, Lancaster picked up their first silverware of the year making them deserved champions of the 2A Northern League. The result looked never in doubt as a confident Lancaster dominated all four quarters, ultimately defeating Chester 75-34. This tremendous run of form from the team has seen them go undefeated (14-0) for the season in both league and cup, a remarkable feat by any means.
In the opening stages, Lancaster took authority of the game dictating play well. Jason Au showed his prowess from outside the circle, shooting three out of five attempted three pointers in the first two quarters alone. This great display from the point guard was backed up well by his teammate and shooting guard James Banks. Together they scored twenty six points in the first half taking Lancaster into a twenty point advantage going into the second half.
Lancaster’s defence shone through brightly as the game wore on. Captain Mike Guille and Centre James Ormond looked in brilliant form ending any hope of an Chester comeback. Ormond in particular turned defence into attack on many occasions finishing the game strongly with ten points. With an accomplished Lancaster defence on the court, Chester weren’t helped by their sloppy shooting which dried up any opportunities they created.
Going into the final quarter, Lancaster led 50-30, calling on members of its bench to secure victory and with it the league title. Ignas Vycas and Rotimi Keshinro to name a few, added to the emphatic score line demonstrating Lancaster’s strength in depth.
The game finished with a 75-34 victory to the home side. Lancaster were now league champions, sparking much deserved celebrations from spectators and team members alike.
Lancaster’s coach Craig Cafferty summed up the mood as he jubilantly told SCAN after the game, ‘I’m really happy for everyone involved. A culmination of hard work, teamwork and a great spirit have made this achievement possible, they’ve deserved it!’
Whilst the team clinched the league with a game to spare, there was no time to waste celebrating with the chance of more silverware and an undefeated season still on the horizon. A 65-64 cup semi final victory against the same opponents Chester, secured a spot for the team in the final of the BUCS Northern Conference cup. With Lancaster hosting the event, the team must feel that home advantage will give them the edge over their competitors.
With the season drawing to a close, the Lancaster Men’s Basketball team can be truly proud of the achievements and performances that they have produced throughout the course of the year.
