Manchester Magic 79 – 34 U12
Phoenix travelled to Manchester for the final game of the regular season to face Manchester Magic. Magic were well organised and set straight to work driving to the basket to get scores on the board. Phoenix struggled to settle but were able to get a few baskets before the end of the first, trailing 6-19 after the first quarter.
The second quarter started much like the first had finished, Magic drove hard and were physical all over the court. Phoenix tried hard but unfortunately lost a few players to injuries during the second. It felt like Phoenix were trying so hard to close the gap but at times baskets just weren’t falling. They went into the half time break 12:38 down.
The third quarter started brightly for Phoenix who forced Magic to turnover the ball with two shot-clock violations in quick succession. Phoenix pieced together some nice play and were able to score a few more points than the previous quarters but it wasn’t enough to make a dent in the Magic’s healthy lead.
The final quarter saw Magic step it up and regain their clinical play. Whilst a valiant effort from Phoenix and a fight to the very end with a few 3-point shots going in, Magic were too strong and took the win 79:34.
With the playoffs yet to be finalised, Phoenix can be very proud of all they have achieved in their very first season of Regional games. They’ve won and lost games, they’ve learnt lessons but most importantly they’ve played as a team and never given up. The team have grown so much over the season, and with trials around the corner, we hope whatever the outcome, that they are able to feel proud of their development and time as a Phoenix player.
