Forestville Eagles 121 | Central Districts Lions 70

 

Forestville has continued their dream start to 2017, crushing Central Districts, 121-70, on the back on some classy team play and highflying dunks.

Majok Deng got the large Wayville crowd on their feet from the start, knocking down a nice jumper before climbing high to dunk, setting the tone for the Eagles.

Nelson Larkins was fighting hard for the Lions, collecting two three’s on his way to 10 points for the quarter. Forestville, however, were taking more of their chances, with a Jake Rios lay-up and one, seeing the Eagles with a 15 point lead at the first change.

Centrals came out with a much-improved energy to start the second, causing a number of turnovers on a 7-0 run. David Earl was showing good aggression, fighting his way into the key and drawing important opportunities at the line.

Despite the Lions hard running, they had failed to make inroads on the scoreboard. Forestville’s accuracy was telling, with Antonio Garrett making his presence felt with 12 points for the half at over 85%.

Deng provided a constant force with 17 points to halftime, combining well with Stefan Wright as the pair collected 15 rebounds in a strong showing.

The third quarter was frenetic, full of equal parts skill and showmanship. Both teams pushed hard, but it was the Eagles with all the answers. Deng was dominant under the rim, whilst Garrett knocked down three long-range efforts at 100% accuracy.

Suddenly the lead had skipped past 40 points, as the ‘Deng fan-club’ had everyone other than the Lions supporters in full voice.

Monyjath Makoi was finding good space to start the fourth, shooting with purpose to provide a nice highlight in a poor Centrals night. He was their best with 14 points and seven rebounds, along with Ricardo Martin who had 5 boards and 12 points before he was fouled out.

Deng continued to wow Eagles fans, receiving a through the legs pass to dunk before assisting Michael Harris to hit a long-range three that delighted coach Andrew Simmons.

Garrett was providing both points and laughs on his way to a game-high 31 points, knocking down a huge three after having lost his shoe. He and ANZAC Medal winner Deng, were Forestville’s best as the Eagles sent a strong message to the rest of the competition running out 51 point winners.

In a short turnaround, Forestville host South Adelaide at home, whilst the Lions are back at Starplex to face a hot Rockets side.