Premier League

Tees Valley Titans: 75

Bears: 72

The Bears suffered another defeat this weekend, in a tough match with a limited squad. However, despite the defeat, a glimmer of hope for the future as the side continues to demonstrate dramatic improvement in their performance as the weeks go by.

The Bears suffered added woes as they learned of the recent sale of their home court, resulting in the loss of the venue to the team of senior and junior athletes for future use.

The Bears began their Tees Valley fixture with a performance notably stronger than any previously – continuing the upward performance curve for the team. With Daz Peasley, Jacob Robinson and Dan Gill able to free themselves from the Titans’ tight shackles and find their way to the hoop, the Bears were able to put points on the board.  On the Titans side, the impressive Liam Fawcett was in fantastic form, keeping the Titans within reach of the Bears.  At the end of the quarter both teams went into the break with the scores Titans 16 – 15 Bears

The second quarter continued the close battle between the Titans and the Bears. A phenomenal performance from the team, and a keen demonstration of speed and agility from Bears talent Dan Gill, enabled the Bears to momentarily cease the leading spot. The scores at half time were Titans 31 – 33 Bears.

After the break the Titans decided to remove their pressing games and play a zone defence. In the face of enormous defensive pressure on their side, the Bears could rely on Jacob Robinson to keep their impressive scoring run going. Robinson utilised his experience, and impressive repertoire of skills to help keep the Bears in touch with the home team going into the last quarter. Titans 51- 49 Bears.

The last quarter was a fantastic end to a wonderful close fought tussle between the teams.  Once again the scoring machine Liam Fawcett was able to keep the Titans tally ticking over, whilst the Bears Gill, Robinson and Peasley fought to try and get the Bears noses in front, but the Titans were able to keep their lead to see out the victory. Titans 75 – 72 Bears

After the game Coach Masterson said “That was a fantastic game. Definitely an exciting one to watch from the stands but an absolute nail-biter from the bench!  I know it’s another loss, but I can see so much improvement in the team and our talent with each game we play.  Congratulations to Titans, especially Liam who we just couldn’t stop today.  He was awesome for Titans. We will be back training and hopefully fighting for a first win this season”.

Asked about the news of the sale of the Henley-in-Arden site, Masterson added “It’s been devastating news for us.  We now have the worry of finding a new home and if we can’t find somewhere soon, I’m worried that we will have to fold the club.  So many of our club members will be left without any competitive sport, especially our juniors. After all, we have spent so much time and effort on getting them into a league for the first time.  There are not many opportunities for kids in this area to be part of a team, and a family, and to play competitive sport.”