Manchester Basketball fell to a 79-89 defeat after a competitive battle in the Super League Basketball Trophy.

For Manchester it was once again Nathan Cayo who led the way recording 21 points and 8 rebounds. Forward Isaih Moore also impressed by imprinting his presence in the paint, he finished the game with 18 points. Moore and Nicholas Lewis combined for three alley-oop dunks in the match, stating Manchester’s intent to look to dominate the game offensively with statement plays.

Throughout the game Manchester showed that they are a side who are building and gaining chemistry with each other as well as gaining much needed game fitness. This is something that Head Coach Callum Jones can look upon positively towards his team as they look to continuously improve game on game.

The difference in the game was the final quarter as Manchester were unable to make some tough shots and Cheshire Phoenix were able to break through a resilient Manchester defence and score tough buckets. However, a never say die attitude from Manchester meant that they were able to reduce the score from 66-86 with five minutes left on the clock to 79-89.

For Cheshire Phoenix it was their Guards who helped guide them to victory. Cameron Holden’s 25 points from 8-11 shooting helped him secure the player of the game. Aswell as Cameron Christon who recorded 16 points and 9 rebounds in the game.

Manchester looked to be physical throughout the game and in the first quarter they played hard defence. Nathan Cayo had an early block, and this signalled Manchester’s intent to play hard on both ends of the court. Cayo would finish the game recording 3 blocks. Cayo also lead the way offensively finishing with 7 points from the quarter. This effort paid off and after trailing for much of the first quarter Manchester were able to end it leading 27-25.

Isaih Moore led the charge for Manchester in the second quarter with 7 points, with five of those points coming in the first minute of the quarter as Manchester looked to get off to a quick start. Offensive rebounds from Nicholas Lewis and Donovan Mitchell signalled Manchester’s desire to look for second chance opportunities. Nathan Cayo made a tough lay up at the end of the quarter to level up the game and send the sides into half time at 44-44.

Consecutive three-pointers from Nicholas Lewis, Junior Madut and Nathan Cayo sprung Manchester into action in the second half. Despite this a slow end to the quarter from both teams saw Manchester head into the final quarter trailing 64-71

Despite some good playmaking from Manchester enabling them to get good open looks they were unable to make the shots. Cheshire Phoenix were able to take command of the game and gain a 20-point lead with five minutes remaining in the game. This didn’t dissuade Manchester though and they restricted Cheshire Phoenix to just three points in the remaining five minutes of the game. Manchester was able to go on a 13-3 run in the remaining minutes of the game thanks to defensive hustle and efficient offence.

This run turned out to be too late, but Manchester should take real positives out of the game. This showed a team that isn’t willing to give up and will play until to win until there is no time left on the clock.

Manchester plays their final of three consecutive home games on Sunday October 6, hosting Caledonia Gladiators in their fourth SLB Trophy group game.