From where I sat the South Dragons had an absolute blinder, to coin an AFL descriptor, both offensively and defensively. I was concerned coming into the game that the team may not believe that they could win, which is understandable-in part-given the quality of the opposition, but from the opening tip it was obvious that the ‘boys’ had come to do more than just play second fiddle. I really had to look twice at times as the team seems to have become stronger and fitter in just weeks. Win or lose I believe that we will see some very hard nosed ball from each and every Dragon throughout each and every game.

One Dragon who I felt summed up the teams effort against the Kings was Brent Hobba. After a shaky start that saw him literally overshot the ball and pick up some cheap fouls he returned to play some critical minutes during which he impacted both ends of the floor. Hobba’s efforts were born of a player who was prepared to work towards the next goal (play) and not be hindered by previous disappointment or success. When you combine such effort with outright skill (Heal and Franklin) the end product becomes very attractive. I must also mention some highlight plays that included an alley-oop dunk, block and numerous big boards for Rosell Ellis, a very cheeky two points for Matt Shanahan who used a Kings derrière to score and some sublime shooting from the guard position which cracked the game open. The Sydney Kings are undoubtedly a great team (and have been for years) to which the Dragons can measure off and continue to develop their young squad after what became a blow out late in the fourth quarter.

I believe the next game to be on the 11th at home (Vodafone) against the Townsville Crocodiles. As the date marks Remembrance Day I believe that the game will again be filled with emotion. I look forward to attending and casting my eyes upon a team ready to make a move up the NBL ladder whilst considering those who lost their lives during war time conflict.