The second game of the day saw Falkirk Fury take on Perth Phoenix in an exciting Under 18 Men’s game that was sure to be a clash of the high flyers as both teams boasted a roster of ultra-athletic big men. Defence was the key for both sides as Fury pressed forcing Perth to beat them with only their best offence. Post play was on show too for Falkirk as big men Sardar Pandher and Jordan Ferguson fought for consecutive offensive rebounds and strong finishes at the basket.
Perth used the perimeter to stay close as Carrig Clark hit from deep to tie the game before Fury’s press helped them get the ball back. Fury led 21-17 at the end of the first quarter. The second quarter was one of personal play as Mitchell Stirling proved to be the X-Factor for Fury as he drove strong to the cup and also facilitated for his big men down low. At the half, Falkirk Fury led Perth Phoenix 35-28.
Defence continued to be the factor for both early on in the third as the boys managed to keep it close trading baskets each end, Perth utilising the fast break to show off as Tom Evans raced down for a monster dunk to cut the lead to as low as 2. This then caused a Falkirk timeout and the Fury boys came out furious at the disrespect and went on a commanding 10-0 run that spiked the score 53-41. Fury continued their impressive play forcing the referee’s into calls, ending the 3rd quarter 61-45 in a Fury favour.
Falkirk continued to bully their way down low into the final quarter, Perth’s big men could not handle the size of the Pandher and Lothian as they grabbed a bunch of rebounds for easy putbacks. Tom Evans of Phoenix decided he had had enough as he erupted for a putback dunk late in the 4th quarter however it was not enough to overcome Fury as they went on to be crowned the Under 18 Men’s Scottish Cup Champions.
Falkirk Fury 91-66 Perth Phoenix.
Sardar Pandher was named the Molten Sports MVP after an impressive performance posting 15 points and 14 rebounds
Stat Leaders:
- Sardar Pandher 15 points and 14 rebounds
- Jordan Ross 29 points and 8 rebounds
