+50M roll back the years in Manchester

The seasoned and depleted +50M faced off against a youthful Manchester Grizzlies in what has become a thrilling annual showdown. Despite the +50’s missing some key players, both teams were evenly matched in terms of size, experience, and depth.

Nerves were high for the +50s as they took the court for the first time as a unit, but Captain Lee Duckett stepped up, showcasing his leadership by calming the team and getting them ready for action. With Assistant Head Coach Taylor at the helm, filling in for Head Coach Dom Short, the +50s hit the court with Duckett, Justin Edwards, Danny Byrne, Dave Martin, and Luke Saxton as the starting five.

The Grizzlies came out strong, applying pressure with a half-court man press and taking an early lead. The +50s needed a spark, and Danny Byrne delivered, draining two long-range threes that had the referees checking if he was out of bounds! With Duckett dishing out assists to Edwards and Martin, the +50s found their rhythm. Martin’s moves were so smooth, you’d forget he wasn’t playing National League, if not for his grey hair.

Edwards played like a silent assassin, scoring efficiently, defending hard, and showcasing sublime footwork and despite an injury to forward Luke Saxton, who played through the pain, the +50s ended the first quarter with a strong 11-23 lead. Coach Taylor rotated the squad in the second quarter, and the new lineup continued the momentum. Bernard Marcarno, Ciaran Breen, Andy England, Graham Cullingworth, and Jason Clarkson displayed excellent passing, movement, and clock management, further extending the lead to 21-38 at halftime.

In the third quarter, Duckett and his squad put an end to any hopes the Grizzlies had of a comeback. Martin, Edwards, Breen, and Duckett dazzled with scintillating plays, while Marcarno, Byrne, and Saxton kept the pressure on. The game concluded with a commanding 55-78 victory for the M50s.

We would like to say a huge thank you to the Manchester Grizzlies for their superb performance and competitive spirit. Their talent was evident, with two players earning invitations to FIMBA GB team trials. The +50s extend their gratitude for the Grizzlies’ hospitality and look forward to the next thrilling encounter.

Mark your calendars, because the FIMBA GB +50 Men are just getting started!

Top Scorers:

Duckett 15
Byrne 15
Martin 13
Breen 10