Rebels Fight Through the Thunder
Essex Rebels Division 1 men fought back to win against the Worthing Thunder in the Season Opener in front of a record-breaking crowd. 1077 Rebels fans packed out the Essex Sport Arena in the first Rebels game of the season – setting a new Essex Rebels Division 1 men’s attendance record!
The Rebels were down most of the game until they turned on their defensive intensity going into the fourth quarter and managed to come back from a 12 point deficit to win 73 – 66.
Worthing came out firing to start the game and Rebels were struggling to convert on the offensive end. Thunder managed to go clear by 11 at half time but the Rebels rallied together and showed true character going into the second half.
American import Conner Nelson lead the Rebels with 14 points, whilst both Ben Winter and Kyron Martin gave the Rebels a spark of the bench with their aggressive defence and scoring to help the Rebels see off the Thunder.
Head Coach Ross Norfolk was pleased with the team’s resilience “We were getting some good open shots in the first half, but they weren’t landing. Worthing were more efficient than us to start with. We rallied together after half time showing great resilience to step up our defensive intensity and offensive poise’.
Dave Parry, the Director of Sport, added: “It was a nerve-racking game; however, I am proud that we managed to turn the game around. It is always great to see a packed crowd and have more than 1000 cheering fans supporting the Rebels, especially on the first game of the season. We can’t wait to see what the rest of the season has in store for us.”
View the full match details and box score here.
The Rebels have a long trip to Derby Trailblazers next Saturday; however, their next home game is on the 21st of October against Barking Abbey. This game is a fan-favourite as it is the Essex Rebels Halloween-Special ‘SPOOKY HOOPS’. Fans are encouraged to come dressed in their most creative and spooky Halloween costumes. Grab your tickets now on the Essex Rebels Eventbrite and get ready to scream, cheer, and support your Rebels at SPOOKY HOOPS!
