Big V basketball: Melton Thoroughbreds cruise to away win

Melton returned to the winners’ list with a two-goal margin over Craigieburn in Big V division 1 men’s basketball on Saturday night.

The Thoroughbreds put in a four- quarter performance to defeat the bottom-of-the-ladder Eagles, 97-85.

Melton started well and made the most of its shots beyond the three-point arc, hitting three of six shots in the first term to open up a seven-point lead.

Fouls were a problem for the Thorough-

breds in the second quarter, with the away team catching the referee’s whistle 12 times for the term.

Fortunately for the Breds, the Eagles’ free throw shooting was off, making nine from 18 attempts.

The third quarter was Melton’s best, with the Thoroughbreds going on a 28-17 run. This time it was the Eagles in foul trouble. Craigieburn sent the Throughbreds to the line for 21 free throw shots, of which they hit 13.

The Eagles took more shots in the final quarter, jacking up three-point shots in a bid to reduce the margin. The tactic worked, with the Eagles hitting four of seven three-point attempts.

But they were unable to reel the Thoroughbreds in.

Anthony Kimble led Melton with 23 points, while Jeff Crowe chipped in with 22.

The Thoroughbreds (5-5) have the bye this weekend.