SPORT
Friday January 29, 2021
Cairns Local News
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PHOTO: Gordon Greaves/Cairns Taipans
Too little too late SAM MCLEAN COMING off back to back losses the Taipans welcomed preseason favorites Melbourne United to The Snag Pit. Senior coach Mike Kelly said pregame; defense and rebounding were the areas to concentrate on. “We haven’t defended the way we need to defend to be a championship level team.” Taipans guard Mirko Djeric called for accountability across the team. “We all need to hold ourselves accountable, every one of us.” Coming off a big last performance Cam Oliver started the game with two personal fouls in the first minute to prompt Mike Kelly to bring in big man Nate Jawai who controlled the space around the rim well. Melbourne United controlled play though going into the first with an 8 point lead.
United started the second strong blowing out to a 14 point lead with Jock Landale (19 points), Jo Lual-Acuil (11 rebounds) both strong performers, however the Taipans were able to get the lead back to only 2 points halfway through the quarter. Landale for United was then able to land two 3 point shots and United closed out a physical first half with a 6 point lead. “It was almost a different game of basketball in the third,” Mike Kelly commentedpost game. “They had a great first half and we had a great second.” The Taipans worked as a team and defended well with Kouat Noi (4 rebounds/3 steals), Nate Jawai (4 rebounds) and Mirko Djeric (13 points) all contributing. The Taipans went into the last 6 points down. Another strong crowd of 1,896 were loud and helped the Taipans lift in the last with Scott Machado (19 points/6
assists) and Cam Oliver (13 rebounds/17 points) leading the way. The team worked hard together to get within 1 point with 38 seconds left. The Snag Pit was heaving when Jack White for United was awarded 2 free throws but missed the second, rebounded by Cam Oliver giving the Taipans possession with 9 seconds to go. He passed the ball to Scott Machado who missed a chance to win the game and Melbourne United were able to remain unbeaten in season 2021. Senior coach Mike Kelly said post game, “I loved the way the guys fought back but in the end it was too little too late.” Final Score: Melbourne United 87 d Cairns Taipans 85 In other league news the Perth Wildcats got their season off to a winning start and Illawarra remain unbeaten.
Cairns & Community Dementia Support Group Y O U ’ R E
N O T
A L O N E Our fortnightly gatherings offer a safe space for social engagement and support for people living with Alzheimer’s or Dementia and their loved ones. These sessions provide an opportunity for attendees to enjoy time together in the company of others in a similar situation. Morning tea is provided (paid for by gold coin donations) When: Every 2nd Wednesday Time: 10 am — 12pm Cost: Gold coin donation Where: Cominos House (27 Greenslope St, Edge Hill)
UPCOMING January 20th MEETINGS: February 3rd and 17th
March 3rd, 17th and 31st April 14th and 28th
For more information call Karina on 0421 416 971 or Helen on 0407 589 338 or email karinagray61@gmail.com
