In a tense and very physical battle, Southend Swifts recorded a very hard-earned 80-65 victory against Thames Valley Tigers at Greensward College in their Men's Junior League area south match.

Southend struggled early on and soon found themselves trailing 7-0.

A three-point play from Nick Squires got the scoreboard moving but Tigers very aggressive and often illegal defence was upsetting the home sides rhythm as they extended their advantage to 13-6 after seven minutes of the first quarter.

Swifts captain Luke Jones could not find his range but his first score, a trademark three-pointer, sparked an 8-0 run that gave the hosts their first lead.

But Thames Valley replied with five unanswered and despite good foul shooting from Southend, it was the visitors who held a 22-18 advantage at the first break.

Tigers came out strongly in the second quarter and extended their lead to ten at 30-20 midway through the period.

However, Swifts regained their composure and with Jones finding the hot hand, tied the game up at 34, Still neither side could get away and at half time it was 40-40.

But the final period belonged to the home side.

Three-point shots from Jones and Iain McCann gave them a seven point cushion and, although Tigers replied with four straight points, that would be as close as they would get.

Published Wednesday November 19, 2003

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