Recap
U16 boys wrap up season on a high with three wins
It’s been a roller-coaster season for a young U16 Eagles boys roster and they finished their ride on an upward curve by beating City of Leeds 83-75 to finish the campaign with three wins. Ultimately finishing the season just a couple of victories short of a play-off spot, they had too much for the visitors at the Vertu Motors Arena, although were almost punished for missing a massive 19 free-throws.
After some good early work, the boys built themselves a handy double-digit advantage at 17-7 and for much of the first-half they held that and were comfortable – arguably too comfortable.
That was the concern of head coach Chloe Gaynor at half-time and Leeds did indeed come back after the break as they ate into the double-digit lead. Some particularly good work by Fiontan Muldoon helped the Eagles find offensive rhythm again, but to their credit, the visitors would not lie down.
Once again they came roaring back with some big triples and heading down the stretch they made it a one shot game with only 90 seconds remaining. But, the Eagles held their nerve and saw the game out.
Muldoon finished as top scorer with 15 points, while Jakub Bobkowski and George Merrifield scored 13 and 12 points respectively.
“We are pleased that we could finish what has certainly been an interesting campaign on a high with three wins and that certainly represents the hard work the boys have put in,” said Coach Gaynor.
“To be honest we are frustrated that the season is ending. We would love to somehow be able to push a rewind button and play a few games again as things have come together.
“When you factor in the fact that the vast majority of our players are younger and eligible for another season, plus how dominant Birmingham and the Manchester teams have been against the rest of the league, we have done well.
“Most importantly of all, the players and coaches have learned so much through this process and will take those things forward to improve.
“Finally, I just want to thank everyone involved now the curtain has fallen, from the players, the coaches, the parents and the club for their efforts,” concluded Gaynor.
