Earlier this week on the 18th of February, the NBL semi finals commenced. Hisense Arena hosted the first blockbuster which saw the in form Melbourne United host the reigning NBL champions, the New Zealand Breakers. This was never going to be easy for either side, and the first quarter played a major part in the final result.
New Zealand were hot to start the game, jumping out to a seventeen point lead, just six and a half minutes in. Although, you can never count out Melbourne. They stormed back in the second period and took the lead after a commanding run led by their veteran power forward, Hakim Warrick. New Zealand lead going in to the major break and managed to keep control of the game for much of the third quarter.
The final period saw Melbourne playing catch up. It was a tight hustle to end the game, and with just minutes remaining, New Zealand were up by over ten! The fouling game started, and had the Breakers been able to hit their free throws, the game could have been over earlier. However, the crowd got right behind Melbourne and they were able to lift. The lead was cut to six points with under a minute left, but Melbourne just couldn't sink a shot!
New Zealand were ale to hold on to a nine point victory going in to Saturday's game two match, where New Zealand will be looking to book back to back final births.
Let's take a quick look at why New Zealand were able to upset the tournament favourites. First of all, they were able to lock down Melbourne's guards. They gave them no room and denied the pass when possible. This lead to many Melbourne turnovers, resulting in easy transition points for the Breakers. Rebounds were the major stat that let Melbourne down. They weren't contesting hard enough under the glass, but credit to New Zealand who crashed the glass with authority time and time again.
If Melbourne are to win on Saturday, they have to get off to a better start and be prepared to battle for the rebounds. As we learnt in game one, they will not be able to rely on their star point guard in Goulding or even Holt. New Zealand on the other hand will need to keep everything the same except shut down Hakim Warrick. If they can do that, then they will have a major chance at clinching the series in just two games.
My opinion? The games is open for either side to win. Melbourne will bounce back but New Zealand will be very hungry. I'm going to say New Zealand will win, only because of the home ground advantage. That is the only way I can split these two talented teams.
If anyone has any sport match that they would like me to write about, please comment below. Feedback is always welcome!
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