U22 European Championships
Adana, Turkey
02 - 11 July 2008
Great Britain 68 - Turkey 63
GB came through a very bruising and intense encounter against Turkey this afternoon.
It was what we were expecting together with the intimidating support of the 800 or so crowd supporting the home nation.
Although Turkey scored first, we soon took the lead and were never behind.
The quarter scores were:
1st - 17 – 17 with Simon scoring 6, Lee 4, Kyle 5 & Laurie Williams scoring off an offensive rebound. Laurie started as Robbie had picked up a light tummy bug. Matt Wild picked up his third foul in the first quarter and we subbed in Helen & Tom and pressed for the rest of the quarter
2nd - 17 – 14 having had some success with the press we played with that unit. Simon again led the scoring with 12 (including a 3), Kyle 3 and Tom 2.
Lee picked up his third foul and Terry came in for the last part of the quarter
3rd - 17 – 14 We needed a good quarter to consolidate our position. We played some excellent defence in the press and created good scoring opportunities. Lee was back on and did not pick up any more fouls. He led the scoring with 8, Tom 4, Simon 5
4th - 17 – 20 We maintained our lead through most of the quarter and even when Turkey reduced the score to 2 points, we scored off quick breaks. Scores from Helen, Nat & Tom 2 each, Lee 4 & Simon 7.
Simon top scored again with 30, Lee 16 & Kyle 8.
It was pleasing to see Laurie and Helen score their first baskets and also seeing us scoring consistently (17 per quarter). Defensively, we worked very hard and did not give away many fouls.
Turkey had 9/11 free-throws and we had 12/21 free-throws. Simon was 9/15 from the line.
The emphasis in this game was to deny their No. 13, their main scorer. Although we worked hard, he still managed 25 points with two other players in double figures.
We expected a very physical and bruising encounter which was the case but the game was played by both teams fairly and in good spirit.
Our aim was to play at high intensity and the players ran the game very well.
Tomorrow we play Italy who have improved considerably since the last Tournament
Haj Bhania - Head Coach