MELTON Thoroughbreds returned to the Big V division 2 winners circle at the weekend, defeating the second-placed Keysborough Cougars by six points.
The Thoroughbreds sit fifth on the ladder with six wins and three losses after the 79-73 win on a night where neither side led by more than seven points.
Melton pounded the boards, in particular Marty Pietrykowski (24 points and nine rebounds) and Jordan Kirk (nine points and eight rebounds), grabbing early offensive rebounds for easy baskets.
In what was an entertaining start to the game with both teams shooting a high percentage, the Thoroughbreds ended the first quarter with a 25-23 lead.
The second quarter was the complete opposite as neither team was able to find the basket.
Things dried up as both teams combined for only six points in six minutes.
Even with sloppy shooting the Thoroughbreds were able to keep in the game, with half-time scores tied at 34.
Things returned to normal after the main break as both teams rediscovered their shooting touch.
Costly turnovers from the Thoroughbreds allowed Keysborough easy baskets.
Before things could get too out of hand with Keysborough looking like it was going to race away with a big win, Jeff Crowe (16 points and four assists) hit a big three pointer and Matt Strutynski (eight points, 11 rebounds) scored timely baskets to bring the Keysborough lead back to 54-52.
Defensive pressure and hustle to start the fourth quarter allowed the Thoroughbreds to set the tone for the final quarter.
Jason Christian led by example, forcing Keysborough into two charges.
With the scores tied with 90 seconds remaining, Jeff Crowe scored two vital free throws, then a massive Shane Moroney block and Jordan Kirk hitting a huge shot gave the Thoroughbreds the lead for good.
A Moroney slam dunk was the exclamation point to what was an important win for the Thoroughbreds.
Melton plays its last match at home before a month on the road this weekend against Mornington Breakers.
Tip-off is 7pm at ‘The Stable’ Melton Indoor Recreation Centre.
with Sean Dixon
