Row J Seat 17
31/10/06

From where I sat it was a pleasure to be a part of the South Dragons inaugural victory. First and foremost, however, my apologies for this late surmise of the contest…I have had a very busy week in the office and despite circulated rumors regarding my directional talent I did not find myself lost on the way home from the Minerdome in Ballarat.

The South Dragons up against the Cairns Taipans (on paper) was always going to be an intense game particularly given the buildup, location and of course the fact that either team laid legitimate claim to victory. What a game it was in reality and beyond the final score with several moments woollier than a New Zealanders wedding night. The combination of emotions, that could be not only looked upon from the stands but tangibly felt as the players and crowd melded post match made the trip up to the ‘country’ well worth while. These guys (players, owners and staff) really want to do well and there was a definite sense of relief for all involved.

The first quarter was hot with both teams combining for well over sixty points in a shoot out but from that point forward defense became the focus of the game. It would appear that Guy Molloy’s defensive knowledge is being utilized heavily which when combined with increased fitness could see the Dragons flying about the court. Fresh face Rosell Ellis was on the floor for the first time, at a combination centre/forward position, where at six foot six you would have thought him just too small to compete. This was however not the case as he scored the first Dragons basket and showed, despite going a little cold in the second half, that his intent and focus is very much about winning. Shane Heal shot the lights out again, Joe Ingles continued to snake his way about the court and Kovossy Franklin acted as the hustle barometer. It was however the multiple and varied efforts off the bench that made the difference.

On a night that celebrated Matt Shanahan’s 350th NBL appearance it was particularly satisfying as a fan to see the team be just that. With a rough schedule over the next 10 days I hope the Dragons can continue to build team and work their way together towards further victory(s).