A 21-6 run to end the contest by Bendigo has put paid to the Hoop City Geelong United Supercats’ hopes of a seventh consecutive win in NBL1 South men’s action.
Leading 91-88 with 6:20 remaining in the final quarter, United was giving itself every opportunity to get one back on the Braves following the Round 2 loss at home.
However, as they did on April 15, Bendigo was able to pull away from Grant Wallace’s team.
This time, it was on the back of some impressive three-point shooting, as they connected on five bombs from beyond the arc in the home stretch.
“They shot a remarkable 60 per cent from the three-point line – 19-of-31 – and deserved the win,” Wallace said.
“We can’t give up 109 points and expect to win games of basketball, no matter who we play
“We scored 97 points – we should win that game by 20.
“That’s the frustration we (coaching staff) have.”
NBL1 WOMEN | STREAK ENDED BY BRAVES
Wallace says defensive intensity will be a focus ahead of this weekend’s home-road double against Knox (3rd 9-4) and Keilor (15th 4-7).
“We’ve got to sort a few things out,” he said
“To be 7-4 at the midway point of the season is respectable. To be 6-5, you’re in a massive pack.
“We’ve got a bit of work to do now.”
On his return from an ankle injury, George Blagojevic finished with 31 points, 12 rebounds and four assists, Gabe Hadley had 25 points, five rounds, three assists and three steals, and captain DeMarcus Gatlin contributed 17 points, eight rebounds, five assists, two steals and two blocks.
However, Braves star Bijan Johnson proved the difference, with his 38 points coming at 68 per cent, including a stunning 7-of-10 from beyond the arc.
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