It was another solid performance from the Lakes Entrance Pelicans men’s team against Morwell on the road last Saturday, but it wasn’t enough to gain victory, succumbing to the Magic by 22 points during round two of the Gippsland Country Basketball League.
Both sides went into the round two clash keen to register their first victory of the campaign, Morwell setting up the win with an exciting first quarter, reverting the Pelicans to playing catch up.
There were still plenty of positive signs for Lakes Entrance, who continue to play a tough defensive game and there was definitely some improvement at the offensive end this week.
The Magic dominated the first stanza, opening up a 21-8 lead by the first break, the Pelicans again struggling to get the ball through the hoop.
At the other end Jordan Canovan (16 points) and William Tankard (17) were always reliable and able to step up when Morwell required a clutch shot.
Taj Murdoch (16) was a welcome addition at both ends of the court for the Pelicans, while James Russell (14) again impressed with ball in hand.
At 36-17 at half time, the game looked out of reach for the Pelicans but to their credit they never shirked the issue, the Magic again dominating the third quarter, 24-13, to lead by 30 at the final break.
The Pelicans played their best basketball in the final term, scoring a season high 26 points, while restricting the enemy to just 18, even with Massimo Hobbs fouled out of the game.
Coach Andrew Wright will be keen for his offence to light up like it did in the final quarter when the Pelicans host unbeaten ladder leader Pakenham this Saturday night at the Lakes Entrance Youth and Recreation Centre at 7pm.
