Improved Rebels lose out in a tight contest
Essex Rebels D1 Men had an improved performance this weekend as they hosted the inform Newcastle University.
The long trip for the visited seemed apparent in the first quarter with the Rebels taking an early lead 33 – 20 lead. Essex knew that Newcastle are a team that do not give up and were aware of these tendencies. The 2nd quarter saw Newcastle find their feet, with Essex coming away from what worked in the 1st allowing Newcastle back in the game early. Half time score saw Newcastle up by 1.
Head Coach Ross Norfolk, rallied the Rebels and saw a high scoring third quarter by both sides. This left an tense last quarter for the Rebels fans as the team were down by 3.
Newcastle kept their foot on the gas, and continued to apply pressure on the Rebels defence.
Down the stretch some huge shots from the outside by the Winter brothers allowed Essex to be in touching distance.
Essex weren’t able to convert some easy lay ups in the final minutes which allowed Newcastle to eek out a greater lead. Time wasn’t on the Rebels side and the game finished 105 – 112.
Essex were lead by the Winter brothers both contributing 21 points, with Ben close to a triple double.
Head Coach Ross Norfolk saw improvements “We were right there! We started well and just needed to maintain that momentum created. It was great to see us grow this week. If we keep pushing I know we can come away with a win.”
Next weekend Essex host the talented Hemel Storm.
