The Navexa Geelong United Youth League Men have kept themselves in contention for a top-two finish after conquering the weekend’s home-road double.
United was able to pull away from Bendigo at Geelong Arena on Saturday night, 87-75, for a second win over the Braves for the season,
Then on Sunday, Luke Beard’s men got some small revenge for a Round 1 loss to Collingwood by handing the All-Stars an 89-59 hiding at Collingwood College.
“We showed an improved ability to stick to our structures and play consistent basketball,” Beard said.“We really wanted to get back to our defensive mindset, which culminated in keeping Collingwood to under 60 points Sunday.“We’re enjoying the challenge and will keep looking to improve week on week as we try to consolidate a top-six position.”
Bailey Bruce led the scoring against the Braves with 20 points, while Marach March had 14 points and eight rebounds.
On Sunday, Marach contributed 17 points and eight rebounds, while Jay Posterino finished with 16 off the bench after re-joining the roster from NBL1 duties.
United next faces Bulleen (7th 6-5) on Sunday in the final game before the bye for the King’s Birthday weekend.
Meanwhile, the Navexa Geelong United Youth League Women’s hopes of featuring in the playoffs have suffered a blow following losses to Pakenham and Collingwood.
Despite 24 points from Jasmine King, including six three-pointers from ten attempts, 21 points from Cashide Green, and 11 assists from captain Vanessa Marsh, United fell to the Warriors 79-69 at Geelong Arena on Saturday night.
On Sunday, Green (23 points, nine rebounds) and Marsh (19 points, seven rebounds, four steals, three assists) battled hard, but United was no match for the All-Stars in a 79-65 defeat.
“We just need a couple more to stand up and contribute on the scoreboard,” coach Jason Bannerman said.
“Defensively, when we play, we look great. Unfortunately, it’s all about consistency and execution.”
Another home-road double faces United this weekend, hosting McKinnon (4th 8-4) before joining the Youth League Men in making a trip to Bulleen (2nd 10-3) on Sunday.
The matchup with McKinnon is part of a triple-header with the Hoop City Geelong United Supercats NBL1 South teams, with tickets available via this link.
