OPENING DAY VICTORY FOR KESTRELS AS THEY BEAT TITANS

Image Courtesy Dan Crowther

Solent Kestrels tipped off their NBL Division 1 Men’s campaign on Saturday afternoon in the capital, as they defeated Greenwich Titans, 91-61. It’s the third season in a row where Kestrels have picked up a victory on the opening day of the season.

Kestrels youngster Jakub Ofman poured in 21 points continuing his fine pre season form, whilst Andre Arissol added 20 points and Luke Busumbru 12.

Andre Arissol came storming out of the gate early on as he scored 12 of the first 16 points for the visitors, to ensure they started well, with their free flowing offence to thank. The hosts responded briefly through Isaac Temitola, however it was the Kestrels who continued to pile on the offensive pressure. Jakub Ofman came off the bench to find scores in the paint, whilst Luke Busumbru ensured Solent would lead 26-11 after one.

The second quarter saw Kestrels taking control of the ball game as they pushed the lead well into double digits. Ben Cope stroked a triple before Ash Briggs scored 6 straight points to keep the scoreboard ticking for their squad. Ofman would score 11 of the final 13 in the half, Kestrels 55-29 to the good at the interval.

Greenwich made some adjustments at the half and shifted to a zone defence that started to cause some problems for the Kestrels, as they began to eat away at the 26 point deficit. Titans did manage to cut the gap to just 11 points at one stage, however Solent did rally to make sure they took a 66-53 advantage into the final ten minutes, after a tricky their period.

The reintroduction of Luke Busumbru from Coach Guymon ignited the Kestrels offence as they used a number of stops on the defensive end to fuel their offensive output. Kestrels quickly set about restoring the 20 plus point advantage and despite Greenwich’s best efforts, there was no answer this time. Kestrels young Itchen core, closed the game out wrapping up a 30 point win in the opening encounter of the season, 91-61.

Solent Head Coach Matt Guymon added his thoughts, “Greenwich were a real unknown for us, with a big roster turnover. This is always a challenge when going on the road early in the season. We opened the game very well, with a great defensive focus which lead to a number of easy scores. A convincing half time lead may have lead to some complacency on our part but credit to Greenwich, who adjusted and increased their physicality which got them back into the game. Fortunately, we weathered the storm and pulled away at the mid point in the 4th. There were a lot of positives to take from the game and we look forward to getting back on our home floor.”

Kestrels have a gap in the schedule this coming weekend with Essex Rebels (originally scheduled) withdrawing their place from the league and a bye in the National Cup. However you can catch the team in action the following weekend (11th) as they welcome Barking Abbey to the SSC, in a rematch of last seasons playoff final. Tickets are on sale for that game now; https://www.solentkestrels.co.uk/tickets