A standout performance from the in-form Bailey Bruce has highlighted a thumping win by the Navexa Geelong United Youth League Men over Altona, 118-61, at Geelong Arena on Saturday afternoon.
Bruce finished with a season-high 29 points at 68 per cent shooting in just 24 minutes. He also hauled in seven rebounds, dished three assists, and grabbed two steals.
Leading 22-18 at quarter time, Luke Beard’s men outscored the Gators 96-43 over the final three periods to remain fourth on the ladder with an 11-4 record.
Like Bruce, Jack Moran also ran at better than a point a minute. His 20 points came at 90 per cent.
Ethan Nicholls (19 points), Marach Marach (15) and Jay Posterino (12) were also busy.
Max Zalakos fell just short of a double-double with nine points and 11 rebounds.
“After a slow start, we were really able to lock in and concentrate on the facets of our game that we wanted to improve,” coach Luke Beard said.
“Our want on the defensive end of the court in the second half was really pleasing to see.”
The Youth League Women produced an admirable performance after suiting up just five players against Pakenham at Cardinia Life.
Trailing 46-39 at halftime, not surprisingly, Jason Bannerman’s quintet tired after halftime as the Warriors claimed a 99-73 victory.
Acting captain Casidhe Green fought hard with 23 points and 16 rebounds, and Jasmine King was also a consistent scoring threat with 22 points.
Kayla Blazko (12 points, 15 rebounds, three steals), Annie Poon (nine points, seven rebounds) and Brooke Egan (seven points, five rebounds, and three steals) left nothing in the tank.
Both Youth League teams host Craigieburn at Geelong Arena on Saturday night before travelling to Coburg on Sunday.
Tickets for Saturday night are available at the door. Card only.
