Rebels Tame The Lions

Essex Rebels Division 1 men were up against the in form BA London Lions at the Essex Sport Arena on Saturday. 

Essex needed to regroup after a disappointing result against Derby last week and the host knew Lions were going to be a real challenge. 

London Lions came out the fastest. Stretching a 10 point lead early on with some efficient offence. A time out by Coach Norfolk allowed Essex to find their feet and chip away at the deficit.

A huge effort on the defensive end for the Rebels put more pressure on the visitors and Essex were able to string together some scoring runs that allowed them to go up by 4 at half time, 48 – 44.

Essex were able to maintain their defensive pressure in the 3rd and some free flowing offence allowed them to get knock down some open shots from 3.

Lions didn’t give up going into the fourth. Even though the Rebels took commanding 17 point lead and huge comeback from London was building. Rebels lost their offensive rhythm with the intensity of the Lions defence. Turnover after turnover saw London claw back the game within touching distance. 

Essex managed to keep calm during the final few minutes and Lions were unable to secure the comeback. 

The Rebels finished winners 90 – 83.

Essex were led by Jake Eynons game high 24 points, whilst captain Tom Child pitched in 14 points, 7 rebounds and 9 assists. 

Head Coach Ross Norfolk was pleased with the performance “We stepped up our defensive efforts today. Everyone bought into the scheme. We lost our way at the end of the game but we stuck together and got the result we deserved’.

Next week Essex travel to Bradford Dragons on Saturday and with a tight turnaround host Reading Rockets at the Essex Sport Arena on Sunday.