MANCHESTER AREA BASKETBALL LEAGUE
2007/8 Season Match Reports 4th February 2008
Prem Division Oxford Phoenix 48-65Burnley
  Report by Tom McEvoy
Burnley were knocked out of the cup by Tropics on Friday 1st February, but the winners had to bring in a ringer - Yorrick Williams - from the British Basketball League to do so.

In order to maintain their joint top of the league position, Burnley needed a win against Phoenix away on Monday 4th, but got off to a dubious start. Burnley coach, Thompson, was disappointed with the first quarter, as the defence appeared to be asleep, allowing the opponents to stay in touch 25-21. Point guards Cummins and Cronin were on fire for this game, the latter hitting a well-aimed three-pointer in the second quarter.

Burnley rallied their defence and it reflected the half time score of 47-29, with Phoenix frustrated into doling out unnecessary physicality and remonstrating with the referees. Burnley kept cool heads for the most part, but the usual reserve of Cronin was tested to the full. McEvoy and Robinson found exceptional form, as did Madej who scored 15 in the game. Kirk was vital to this physical side of the game, as was Dave Bolt, who was leading scorer with a greedy 26 points. Daz Bolt, featured heavily at both ends of the court, making 14 in the game with the score 65-48 in Burnley's favour.

A valiant team effort in the final quarter saw Madej and Cummins close out the game, the former hitting two three-pointers and boosting the lead to 92-60 for another Burnley win, keeping them in joint top position with Stockport on 25 points.

Next game is Preston at St Peter's centre Friday 15th February 7:15pm