In front of a capacity crowd, the St Charles College first team put their unbeaten record on the line against perennial basketball powerhouse Maritzburg College. This contest promised to be exciting after the Saints claimed a narrow victory on the College home court during the Stayer’s season.
The Saints, coming off their recent victory over Michaelhouse, got off to a good start by applying full court pressure to the College offense. This resulted in a few forced turnovers from the opposition and allowed the SCC team to make some easy plays on the scoring front. College, however, remained in the game throughout with some strong offensive rebounding which gave them a number of second chance opportunities. Their strong inside presence required a full team effort from the Saints as they attempted to box their opposition out and allow for their transition game. In the end, both teams played well, but it was the ability of the Saints team to make easy baskets in transition and knock down the outside shots when College’s defence was set that resulted in their 62 – 53 victory.
With the result aside, it was refreshing to see school boy sport played as it should be. There was respect for the opposition from both sides with a focus on good, hard and competitive play. Both teams gave their all and they are commended for the spirit in which the game was played.
Photo: Saysha Baker