For the 3rd successive home game, Taunton Tigers Men's team lose in the last minute of the game and go into the Christmas break without a League win. Head Coach Ronnie Heath was clearly feeling the pain after an overtime loss against close rivals Cardiff.
“The is the most difficult season I have ever experienced as a player or a coach and we are only half-way through! Goodness knows how the fans must feel, they keep coming back in their droves, we owe them a win soon.”
The game mirrored the recent reverse fixture that Taunton edges by 1 point. With both teams strengths based on organised aggressive defence, it was no surprise that it was a low scoring game. Taunton seem to have control for long patches stretching to 8 point leads but then about of missed lay-ups and turnovers would let the determined Celts right back in. Berry inside and Miles outside were constant threats and floor leader Horrocks knew where to find them the ball. Cardiff buoyant after beating Derby the previous evening could smell an opportunity to beat the Tigers.
For Taunton the points were typically spread throughout the team but it was player of the month Adam Rickwood who was getting to hoop typically for easy buckets. Once again cruel luck meant that Rickwood left the game with a hand injury mid-way through the 3rd quarter.
Cardiff started the 4th the strongest but with the home crowd drowning the visitors support Tigers roared back culminating in a three pointer from Jordan Seeley to take the game into overtime.
When Miles missed both free throws with Tigers 1 point up with 24 secs, Taunton could be forgiven thinking this as their day. But poor concentration led to Cardiff coming up with the rebound and making the last score of the game.
Taunton had lost heavily to league leaders Reading the day before with Heath choosing to rest key players ahead of the Cardiff fixture. They rallied in the 2nd quarter to get back within 11 points but Reading were able to give minutes to academy players as the outclassed the visiting Tigers to finish 93 – 58.
Tigers have an easier programme post Christmas with most games at home, and Heath will be desperate to turn promise into league points.
“With so many missing several games with injuries our average fitness levels have dropped from a strength to a weakness for us. The players will all be given individual targets over the Christmas break. I truly believe we only have to add composure and quality decision making to our obvious commitment and depth we can salvage the season. I refuse to accept that injured players are the reasons behind the losses. We have enough quality players, so I have to carry the blame and get working on the other factors.”