Slammers edge closer to finals

The Collie Crane Hire South West Slammers men’s side is one win away from a semi-finals berth, after defeating the Willetton Tigers 90-83 on Saturday night.

The game was tight from start to finish, with scores level at the main break before a big third term saw the South West side get home by seven points.

The Slammers scored 21 points to just 16 in the third term to break away, before a tight and low scoring last gave them the close win.

Regular starters Ty Harrelson and Trent Worthington began on the bench in their return matches and had a big impact.

Slammers import Tre Nichols kept his fantastic season going with 27 points in the low-scoring encounter, while big man Jordan Hickert was cool under pressure to slot 17 points and grab six rebounds.

Brian Voelkel again contributed enormously in the rebounding column, grabbing 12 in a great effort while also scoring seven points and having nine assists.

For the Wolves Damien Scott (18 points) and Ephrem Davis (15 points and 19 rebounds) fought hard, as home side spread the scoring load evenly.

The win was made even more special for the Slammers because of the personnel missing, with captain Clive Weeden and promising youngster Mitch Keller both out with knee injuries.

Harrelson also returned from his time in the United States, where he has started his role as the head coach at Wayland Baptist University.

The Slammers will take on the Willetton Tigers at the Eaton Recreation Centre on Friday night in game two of the series.

A win will put the Slammers straight through to the semi-finals.