Infernos unable to reel in determined Tigers outfit in dying minutes of ABA opening round men’s A-grade clash

Tigers held on for a narrow four-point victory over Infernos in the opening round of the Albany Basketball Association men’s A-grade competition on Tuesday night. In a desperate final few minutes Tigers withstood a late challenge from a persistent Infernos. Tigers led by three points at half-time and kept their noses in front in an enthralling final 25 minutes, emerging winners 32-28 on the final buzzer. Both sides traded baskets early in the second half and the margin remained small until Tigers hit back-to-back points midway through the period. Tigers pushed their advantage to double figures for the first time in the game with seven minutes remaining. Infernos hit back with a three from Jordan Pansoy but it was matched at the other end by Corey Ward. A new-look Infernos side hit the next six points to reduce the margin to four inside the final two minutes, but they couldn’t draw any closer and went down narrowly. Youngster James Watters was vital with nine points for Tigers and he was well supported by Pete Watters (eight points). Pansoy hit three long bombs on his way to 11 points and Lewis Bosch was busy with 10 points. Last season’s grand finalists Denmark followed their impressive debut season, with a commanding 61-38 win over Barking Owls. Jackson Shaw was dominant in the victory, leading all scorers with 25 points, as his side controlled the second half to outscore Owls by 14 and collect three early points. Denmark also had a great contribution from Gus Brampton (14). Jordi O’Neill (13) top scored for Barking Owls. Ambassadors handed reigning premiers Sonics a 11-point defeat in the first round. Carryl Macquinto dropped 14 points and Caleb Carman also played a leading hand with 12 points as their side prevailed, 54-43.