The feeling in the group after last weekend’s loss was definitely one of regret. We felt like the game was there for the taking and we let it slip. Tied at three quarter time we had enough momentum to carry us to victory.

Unfortunately we did not account for the devastating shooting performance by Wolves veteran Doug Gates who poured in 17 points in 8 minutes of game play, knocking down four triples in a 35-19 final quarter. As well as putting the game out of our reach, it has also lead me to despise one of my favourite dance tracks, Cali Swag District’s, ‘Teach Me How to Dougie’.

We knew going in to the game that the Wolves were a potent offensive team. With that in mind we were disappointed to lose the rebound count so convincingly, allowing them 15 offensive rebounds and crucial second chance opportunities. We will need a much-improved focus in this area if we are to give ourselves a chance of victory this weekend.

After a strong week on the training track we go into this weekend confident that we can win two games on our home court. We found ourselves in a similar situation in the first round of the playoffs against the Mandurah Magic but we know this week the stakes are higher.  Wanneroo are a proud club and will not go down without a fight. During the season we have forged a strong identity and self-belief that will see us play hard-nosed, relentless basketball right to the end.

Hawks fans get behind us this weekend!  Your continued support this season has been incredible and I expect to see a rowdy sea of blue and white when we hit the floor Friday night to take down the Wolfpack!