Rebels split the weekend in two tough contests

Essex Rebels Division 1 men had a tough double header this weekend. Saturday they took on top of the table Hemel Storm and then hosted London Lions II in the National Cup fourth round. 

Saturday saw the rebels face the number 1 ranked team in the league, who have a super-efficient offence and organised defence. 

Essex started slowly with Hemel taking an early 10 – 0 lead, a quick time out by Coach Norfolk refocused the group and the Rebels started to hit back at the storm. 

The Rebels matched Hemel’s offensive efficiency  going into the half with Hemel taking the lead by 8. 

After the half time, Essex seemed to have stayed in the locker room. Hemel was firing on all cylinders and the Rebels couldn’t find an answer. A huge third quarter for the visitors allowed them to generate a comfortable lead. 

Rebels didn’t give up going into the fourth. They continued to push on but it was too late for the Rebels to claw anything back. 

Hemel finished with the win 111 – 76.

Essex were led by American guard Owen Chose with 20 points and 5 assists, whilst big man Lee Linton Hodges pitched in with 15 points. 

The quick turnaround with the Rebels hosting London Lions II on the Sunday in the national cup was an opportunity to bounce back.

Essex came out firing to start the game. Taking an early lead with some big plays in transition. 

The Rebels maintain their offensive scoring and went into the half up 8. 

Second half saw Essex utilise their size advantage. Playing out of the post and creating scoring opportunities around the rim. A huge third quarter for the Rebels saw them stretch their lead by 20 points. 

Essex were able to continue with their tenacious defence and scoring form flowing into the fourth. 

The Rebels came out winners 100 – 81 and advance into the next round of the cup.

Again, Essex were led by Owen Chose with 26 points with Lee Linton Hodges and captain Rory Winter contributing with 17 points. 

Coach Ross Norfolk was pleased with the team’s ability to bounce back, “It was great to see us bounce back after a tough contest on Saturday. Against Hemel we played well for 3 quarters and saw a dip in concentration for 1 quarter. Sunday we put together a 4 quarter performance and came away with a great win.”

Next week the Rebels take the long trip up to Newcastle University in their regular season match up.