top of page
Search

2026 TIPS OFF WITH A TOUGH ROAD WIN FOR KESTRELS AT BARKING

Image Courtesy of Dan Crowther
Image Courtesy of Dan Crowther

Solent Kestrels made a strong return from the Christmas break as they opened 2026 with a composed 71–59 victory on the road at Barking Abbey on Saturday afternoon, pulling away in the second half of a low-scoring NBL Division 1 game. Andre Arissol led all scorers with 25 points for the Kestrels, supported by a well-rounded performance from Luke Busumbru with 15 points 7 boards and 4 assists, whilst Jakub Ofman added 12 on his return from injury.


The opening quarter set the tone for a physical contest, with both sides shaking off the rust of the festive break. Solent settled the quicker of the two, using early defensive pressure to create transition opportunities and edge ahead 21–15 by the end of the first period.


Barking responded in the second quarter, slowing the game down and finding more success attacking the paint. The Kestrels however did continue to generate good looks but shooting became harder to come by, allowing the hosts to limit the damage. Kestrels did get up as many as 13 before a 3 to beat the half time buzzer trimmed the defecit to 10, 36-26.


The decisive spell came after the interval, as Solent reasserted control with their best offensive quarter of the game. Barking cut the arrears in the early part of the quarter but Arissol took charge with a series of strong drives and timely jump shots. Kestrels used their defence pressure to force turnovers that helped stretch the lead, outscoring Barking Abbey 23–20 in the third.


With a 13-point cushion heading into the final quarter, Solent managed the game effectively. BA battled to the end and trimmed the margin in spells, but disciplined defence and key baskets from the Kestrels ensured they closed out the contest, 71–59, to start the new year with a valuable road win.




Kestrels turn their attention to London Elite next weekend as they return to the SSC for the first time in 2026, tickets for that game are now on sale here; https://www.solentkestrels.co.uk/tickets


You can now also purchase your National Cup Final tickets where Kestrels will take on Manchester Magic at the University of Worcester Arena on Sunday 25th January 2025. When purchasing your tickets please use code: SKNCF to help support the club and confirm you are purchasing tickets as a Solent Kestrels supporter.


bottom of page