Undefeated Centrals Five Point Victors Over Forestville
The Eagles may have finished hard and fast but just fell short of a win, going down to Centrals by five points at Wayville on ANZAC Day. Momentum shifted many times throughout the match, but it was Centrals who looked in control all game.
While the Eagles were inaccurate at times, the Lions couldn’t miss, capitalising on most scoring opportunities that came their way. Forestville missed some big shots during the game, making their last quarter comeback even more challenging.
The last quarter was an even affair, with both teams playing well but it was the seven point buffer that Centrals took into the fourth that proved crucial in the end.
Centrals’ accuracy extended to the three point line and Joel Goodenough (4/4), Matthew Atkins (4/6) and Paul Joyce (3/6) all shot well from beyond the arc. Many of these came in the last quarter to help seal the win for the Lions. Goodenough (2 rebounds, 3 assists) and Joyce (8 rebounds, 3 assists) finished with 13 points each while Atkins (4 rebounds, 2 assists) ended with 12.
Chris Clausen was one of the best on court with 19 points, two assists and seven rebounds in his 31 minutes of game time.
Adam Doyle was one of the Eagles’ best, playing all 40 minutes. Doyle kept his pace all game finishing with 21 points, nine assists, five rebounds and one steal.
Jake Rios had 19 points for the Eagles (including three 3s), three rebounds and an assist.
Eagles’ coach Andy Simons’ half time address played dividends, as Brad Gerlach came out firing in the third. After a quiet first half (3 points, 3 assists and 2 rebounds), Gerlach was impressive in the second finishing the game with 15 points, six assists and 15 rebounds.
Gerlach was instrumental in Forestville’s last half comeback but their inaccurate shooting throughout the game proved too costly.
The Lions were the stronger team on the day and their early work in the game ensured a 5 point victory. Centrals remain undefeated after round 5.
Central District Lions 89 (Chris Clausen 19, Joel Goodenough 13, Paul Joyce 13)
Forestville Eagles 84 (Adam Doyle 21, Jake Rios 19, Brad Gerlach 15)
By Samantha Thomas
Photo courtesy of Tanya Fielding
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