Having to play Bury in back-to-back games was never going to be an easy proposition. As predicted, the score in the second game was closer than the first one. Both teams started nervously and nobody scored after 2 and half minutes. First quarter was fairly evenly balanced with Stockport finishing 20-12 up. Second quarter was similar and as a result Stockport finished the half with 10 points ahead.

In the third quarter Stockport exploited the offensive weaknesses of Bury and with some spirited defence managed to increase the difference. The highlight of the quarter was a buzzer 3-point shot by Antony Crow from 8 metres!

Bury demonstrated its resilience in the fourth quarter. With strong drives and fast breaks 3 minutes before the end it was game on. But Bury was running out of time. Stockport managed to keep their cool in the last minute and to finish the game with 6 points difference.

Once again Stockport demonstrated the team spirit having 4 players on double figures. Dave Siddall led the scorers (again!) with 19 points, followed by Antony Crow and Samit Nuruzade with 15 points each and Kostas Katsikaronis with 13 points.

What is happening to Bury?  Four straight losses has put a damper on the season's expectations and with other teams stepping up, the champions of last season hosted Stockport hoping to overturn a twenty point loss from their last meeting.

It was the visitors who came out aggresive, establishing a comfortable lead, using their height advantage to stave off Bury's efforts.  The first quarter ended with the home side trailing by eight.

The second quarter was no change although Alan Hall scored twelve consecutive points to give his team some hope.  Bury seemed to lack any intensity and motivation and stared at a ten point defecit at the half.

In the third Stockport built upon the lead and held an 18 point advantage and the game looked over for Bury who have recently found themselves in deep holes only to rally late for an exciting finish.

It was only in the fourth when Bury stepped up and showed the kind of team they can be.  Tom Hope came off the bench and brought his hustle and determination to the game scoring eight points and a block.  Bury slowly ate into the lead and with two minutes remaining Bury were down by only three.  Finding their way to the foul line, Bury had the chance to tie but missed free throws thwarted their chances, allowing Stockport to hold off for an 86 to 80 win.
Alan Hall and Mike Nichols led scorers with 26 and 23 respectively.

Bury need players to step up and be counted, to show enthusiasm and support the team and show encouragement.  Only the playoffs can offer them any chance of silverware this year but the attitude of some players could have a negative effect.  Come on guys....we are better than this!!!