SBL: Community Newspaper Group Cup won by Willetton women’s and Cockburn men’s teams

THE Willetton Tigers Women beat their long time rivals Cockburn in the Community Newspaper Cup in round four of the State Basketball League on Friday night.

The Tigers remain undefeated in the annual cup against the Cougars, chalking up 82-55.

Willetton started the game with a quick basket by Zoe Harper (20) assisted by Kate Malpass (23), putting the pressure on before gaining a turnover by forcing the shot clock.

At the end of the first quarter, Tigers were up 24-8 – then managed to stay ahead the for whole game.

Louella Tomlinson (11) hit a massive total of 32 points and 12 rebounds. Emma Gandini (7) got a total of 16 points and two assists, while Desiree Kelley (9) helped the team with eight assists, four rebounds and six points.

The success could not translate for the Tiger men’s side in a tough game against the Cougars – finishing 108-115.

In the first quarter, Damien Scott (8) assisted Nicholas Cody (9) to bring the Tigers in front at one point in the game.

Later in the third quarter, Damien Scott (8) shot a three-pointer to bring the score to 61-61.

At the start of the fourth quarter, Kyle Armour (10) made a fast break and layup and drew the foul for an extra shot, which put the Tigers 10 points in the lead 92-82.

However, a final quarter surge from Cockburn saw the Cougars lift the cup for 2016.

Jay Bowie (20) had a total of 29 points, eight rebounds and seven assists while Scott’s total was 28 points.

For Andrew Black’s (7) 100th game he notched up two points, four rebounds, two assists and one block.

The men had better luck in their second game on Sunday against Geraldton Buccaneers, which they won 112-88.

Scott had a superb game, with 45 points, eight rebounds and four assists.

Josh Johnson (45) scored 11 points, got seven rebounds and two assists with three of the shots scored from the three-point line.

Jay Bowie (20) got a score of 24 points, five assists and three rebounds – all of which were defensive.

The women’s team plays Mandurah Magic at 6.30pm on Saturday, April 26, with the men playing at 8.30pm.