'Fantastic day' for Guernsey's youth

COACH Adam Farish was an emotional man after seeing both his junior sides record victories in the inter-insulars. The under-17 side ran out winners in the first of the four games played at Beau Sejour on Saturday.

A strong defensive performance from the youngsters helped them secure a 47-39 victory over the Caesareans.

'I think we were expecting to win the under-17 game because we have a very strong team for that age,' said Farish.

Aaron Walden and Scott Rowe dominated on defence and racked up 27 rebounds between them, with Walden taking Most Valuable Player honours for his 10 points and 15 rebounds.

The under-21 game was a total contrast as offence dominated. Guernsey eventually won 92-75 against a strong Jersey team that contained the 6ft 5in. Polishman Didzis Lauskis, arguably the best player in Jersey basketball.

'I was quite emotional after the under-21 game because we've been though a lot together this year. They've all been a joy to coach and the way they went about the game today was brilliant.

'They played great basketball and it was a joy to watch. Everyone contributed to the win. Jersey had one standout player and we had five leaders out there today at all times. It's been a fantastic day.'

The game started at a frantic pace and Guernsey dominated the first period with their high-energy play.

In the second quarter captain Jason Hooper started to take his man on in one-on-one situations and a three from Hooper, followed by two consecutive three's by Richard Fletcher, stretched Guernsey's lead to 49-30 at half time.

Jersey started the stronger after half time, with Lauskis using his height and ability off the dribble to take his man to the basket for numerous scores. Jersey were left wondering what might have been if they had used their star player this way for the whole game instead of using him outside the three-point line for the entire first half.

Guernsey re-gathered their momentum in the final quarter with Hooper and Fletcher scoring at will as the Sarnians finished strong.

Hooper took the MVP honours with 24 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. He was ably assisted by Fletcher's 22 points and 5 assists.