Q1: 14-2

It would be an unfortunate first quarter for the Bombers, with their only points coming from a mid-range shot off of one foot from Baker - no.9. This gave Newark a chance to create an early lead, helped by Mockus - no.15’s 3 point shot quickly after the start of their play. Although the Bombers tried to keep a strong defensive set, Stankys - no.19, was able to make a fantastic hook as well as taking one from the charity stripe. The Bombers, however, continued to cluster the paint defensively, allowing Newark to hit another 3 to gain a 10 point lead. With the Bombers unable to find the net, Newark pulled far ahead to close the quarter. 

Q2: 19-14

With the Bombers unable to click as a team, Newark were able to take a few easy points from fouls. However it finally seemed as though the Bombers had started their engines, getting their first make in the quarter with 6 minutes to go. Newark had seemingly tired out, showing good IQ but poor execution. With a beautiful finish from Rekstys - no.24 and a quick 3 from Taurinskas - no.3, it seemed that Newark would once again be far ahead of the bombers. However, Baker matched this with a 3 of his own, followed by some tight handles and a brilliant layup to finish the quarter with a 5 point difference. 

Q3: 23-23

The Bombers would come out fighting, getting a steal and making a quick shot. Newark, however, couldn’t seem to get any arc on theirs, careering off the back of the rim each time. Both teams were now completely dry. A timeout from Newark would bring the hope of new energy and some increased scoring. What became of it was in fact a high turnover quarter, with some enjoyable but competitive banter being thrown back and forth as both teams intercepted and consequently missed. This was only broken by a 3 from Taurinskas - followed by his iconic celebration! However, with a crucial free throw for the Bombers, Wyatt - no.8 would make both shots to tie the game going into the final quarter.

Q4: 35-34

Both teams would start the final quarter by hitting close shots, making each of them 1-1 to start. The Bombers would capitalise off of fastbreak points, followed by a possible dagger of a 3 to put them ahead. Newark’s high pressure offence pushed the Bombers to their limits, with Taurinskas getting a steal and Rekstys getting a crucial mid range shot to reduce the Bomber’s lead to 5. With 4 minutes remaining the score stood at 29-31, quickly evened out by a 3 from Mockus. With tensions high for both teams, it would be Rekstys that would make the crucial 3 point shot from deep, setting the Newark bench ablaze. Although the Bombers were able to make a final shot from a free throw, it wasn't enough, and Newark would win their first game of the season, followed by roaring cheers. 

It was a closely fought, yet low scoring game. Although the Bombers started out poorly, they were able to do a commendable job to climb back, even taking the lead in the final quarter. However, Newark’s ability from range proved too much, ultimately putting them ahead with a brilliant clutch game.

Credit must go to Rekstys - no.9, who proved to be the nail in the coffin for the fantastic win. His 50% field goal percentage was exciting to watch, as well as the insurmountable energy he brought to the team. Overall, a fantastic game played, achieving a double double, with 14 points and 10 rebounds!

Whilst Newark can revel in the celebrations, the Bombers now have a chance to change up the narrative. Can they beat the current league leaders: the Lightning, next week?

You can find out first hand by joining us at 6:45pm on Thursday 10th of October at The Deans College, Lincoln.

See you there.

NEXT WEEK’S GAMES: 

Tropics vs Oddities & Bombers vs Lightning

Newark BC Highlights:

• Rekstys (#24) led Newark BC with 14 points, shooting 50.0% from the field (5-10), including 100% from the free-throw line (2-2). He also contributed a game-high 10 rebounds and 1 steal.

• Taurinskas (#13) added 9 points, shooting 50.0% from three-point range (2-4), and grabbed 3 rebounds and 1 steal.

• Stankys (#19) scored 4 points, while securing 8 rebounds and 1 steal.

• Mockus (#15) contributed 5 points, grabbed 3 rebounds, and had 2 steals.

Bombers Highlights:

• Brotherston (#11) led the Bombers with 9 points, shooting 33.3% from the field (2-6) and 62.5% from the free-throw line (5-8). He added 9 rebounds and 1 assist.

• Baker (#9) scored 8 points, shooting 50.0% from two-point range (2-4), and grabbed 1 rebound.

• O. Putt (#4) added 6 points, shooting 100% from the free-throw line (3-3), and collected 4 rebounds.

• P. Wyatt (#8) contributed 6 points, shooting 50.0% from the field (2-4), and provided 2 assists.

Team Performance:

• Newark BC shot 29.5% from the field overall, with 28.6% from beyond the arc.

• The Bombers struggled offensively, shooting 21.3% from the field and only 9.1% from three-point range.

• Newark BC dominated the boards with 28 total rebounds, compared to the Bombers' 26.

• Newark BC's defense forced 6 steals, while the Bombers forced 8 steals.

Scoring by Quarter:

• Q1: Newark BC 14, Bombers 2

• Q2: Bombers outscored Newark BC 12-5.

• Q3: Bombers 9, Newark BC 4

• Q4: Newark BC edged the Bombers 12-11.

Final score: Newark BC 35 - Bombers 34