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BBL Berry the spark for Rocks win
With two players absent through injury yesterday, Edinburgh Rocks could have so easily have accepted defeat to Thames Valley Tigers. Yet Ted Berry was a man inspired, producing a virtuoso basketball performance which included 26 points to lead the Scots to a welcome 75-63 victory at Meadowbank.
The American guard was everywhere, marshalling his team in field general fashion and notching the baskets which raised him and his side above the mediocre visitors. In tandem with the impressive Michael New, Berry led the response to an early Thames Valley lead and was on hand to convert a long range shot which left the hosts ahead 35-30 at the break.
With Chester Jets splitting their weekend double-header, victory was imperative for Edinburgh and it was delivered courtesy of an emphatic fourth quarter burst. Level at 54-54 with six minutes remaining, Jim Brandon's men hit eleven unanswered points to surge decisively in front, ensuring that they retain fourth place in the Northern Conference ahead of a two week break.
Coach Jim Brandon was full of praise for their efforts.
"Nobody in the league gave us the odds to win today but the guys played with so much spirit. We brought a lot of energy onto the court. "Ted knew he had to step up as did all our veteran players. I think it's good that you can bring the best out of athletes when you have injuries and he produced that."
New signing Jerrell Bowman showed signs of rustiness on his Rocks debut but the point guard gave a glimpse of his potential in scoring 10 of his total 12 points in the second half.
Tony Christie on 17 and Greg Meldrum on 16 topped Tigers scoring.
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