Posted on 27 April, 2008
against a quality Frankston (10-2) line up, the Cobras were unable to claw their way back going down by 12 points 96-84.
A hard fought first quarter saw both teams go basket for basket as Frankston took the quarter time lead 24-22. David Gruber (34pts, 13rbds) was unstoppable in the paint forcing the Cobras to foul and send him to the line.
Despite three early fouls Joe Werner (19pts, 23rbds) was able to play major minutes but failed to have the scoring impact of Gruber. Werner was a monster on the boards but foul trouble again saw Gruber win the battle of the bigs.
After playing Frankston on SEABL Big Wednesday, the Cobras were aware of the need to stop Robert Kampman (14 pts) and Andrew Harms (12pts) and did just that, holding the duo to just 26pts. But with Gerard Leonard (9pts) not firing, Kilsyth found it difficult to score.
Frankston pushed the game open in the 2nd quarter racing to a 12 point lead as the Cobras faced another come from behind situation. Kilsyth 1-4 in their last five games have been forced to come back from over 12 points down in their last 5 games and have recorded just one victory. This issue resembles the 4th quarter fade outs of 2007, as the Cobras struggled to put together four consistent quarters of basketball.
Down by as much as 15 in the 3rd term, Kilsyth fought their way back into the match by winning the 3rd quarter 24-20 and then starting the 4th with a 7-0 run. Back to within a point, Kilsyth were unable to push into the lead, as Frankston again got some easy buckets.
Todd Mitchell was a surprise packet for Frankston scoring 20 pts and making the Cobras defensive assignments tougher. Zach Malvik and Jon Croft both scored 17 pts but it wasn’t enough as the Cobras scored just 84.
Kilsyth must regroup for a match against Mt Gambier today followed by Hobart at home next Saturday night. The next four games are crucial for the Cobras as they travel to Canberra the following weekend and will be looking for 4-0 record over this stretch.
For all your Club Kilsyth Cobras news stay tuned to www.kilsythbasketball.com.au
