FOURTH QUARTER COLLAPSE SEES SHORTHANDED KESTRELS LOSE IN LONDON

Image Courtesy of Dan Crowther

Solent’s seven-game winning streak in all competitions came to an end in London as the Kestrels fell 78–71 to CoLA Southwark Pride in a tightly fought NBL Division One battle. Ethan Round poured in 22 points, Wayne Kitenge delivered a powerful 17-point, 12-rebound double-double, and Luke Busumbru added 10 points, but CoLA’s energy and defensive pressure proved decisive down the stretch.

The Kestrels opened brightly, pushing the pace and finding early rhythm through Round’s shot-making and Kitenge’s presence inside. A strong stretch midway through the period saw Solent build their largest lead of the game at 13. CoLA responded with transition scores, but Solent’s offensive balance held firm as they closed the quarter ahead 26–22. The early four-point cushion reflected confident ball movement and efficient inside scoring.

Momentum continued to tilt Solent’s way as Kitenge controlled the glass and Busumbru began to orchestrate in the half court. CoLA tightened defensively, slowing the Kestrels’ tempo and generating turnovers that kept them within striking distance. Round’s perimeter shooting remained a key outlet, helping Solent edge the quarter 19–14. At the break, the Kestrels carried a 45–36 advantage, looking composed and in control.

CoLA came out with renewed aggression, speeding the game up and turning Solent’s turnovers into quick scores. The Kestrels’ offence stalled, shooting just 4-for-19 in the quarter as CoLA’s physicality disrupted their rhythm. A key 11-2 CoLA run flipped the momentum and dragged the hosts back into the contest. Solent were outscored 17–12 in the frame, holding only a narrow 57–53 lead heading into the fourth.

The final period belonged to CoLA, who surged ahead with defensive stops and sharp decision-making in transition. Solent fought to stay attached—Round hitting big shots and Kitenge battling for second-chance points—but the hosts seized control with a decisive late push. CoLA’s 25-14 quarter sealed the comeback as the Kestrels struggled to generate clean looks against tightening pressure. Despite their strong first half, Solent ultimately couldn’t halt CoLA’s momentum as the game slipped away in the closing minutes.

Kestrels will look to bounce back in their final league action of 2025 this coming Saturday where they will play host to Greenwich Titans at the SSC, 6pm tip off. Tickets for that game are on sale now; https://www.solentkestrels.co.uk/tickets

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