jmenoldreps

In a thrilling basketball game at Westbourne Sports College on Saturday, Ipswich Tomcats beat Coventry Crusaders by just 4 points winning the first round of the National League Playoff games and setting up an away fixture against either Sheffield or Durham who play on Sunday.

Bad traffic in the Midlands meant that the planned three o'clock TipOff was slightly delayed with Coventry only just making it to Westbourne with minutes to spare. Unfortunately for the Coventry side this was the first opportunity the home supporters had had to see their recently crowned league champions in action and they had turned out in force.

Once the game got underway it seemed as if the ball would just not go in the net at either end of the court. Eventually after almost two minutes the Tomcats opened the scoring to loud cheers from the large home crowd as captain Aaron Mosley got things moving. Coventry retaliated by sinking six for no reply until Aaron once again got a grip, sank a basket and drew a foul - but still the home side were trailing. With just over five minutes played Tomcats' Lee Greenan brought the crowded hall to their collective feet when he leveled the sides on nine points a piece. For the rest of the quarter the sides swapped baskets with the Tomcats looking uncomfortable in the face of the Crusaders pace and ball passing accuracy. On the buzzer, the Tomcats trailed by three: 22 - 25

It was Coventry who got first points in the second quarter then Johnny Parodi scored his first three pointer of the day and thus began a two minute spell of scoring for the Tomcats. Mosley, Daly & Greenan followed on to put the Tomcats ahead by six. The Tomcats were still frustrated by their poor finishing and Coventry's excellent ball handling. Despite this they managed to pull out a ten point lead by the end of the half: 49 - 39

Again in the third quarter it was Coventry who got the scoring started and both teams simply exchanged points for the first five minutes. Then Greenan & Mosley sank six for no reply giving the Tomcats what would turn out to be the biggest lead of the game - 65 - 49. However this just seemed to spur the Crusaders on helped by a string of fouls called on the Tomcats and good accurate shooting by the Crusaders - by the end of the third we had a one point game on our hands - 69 - 68

The atmosphere at Westbourne was electric as the final quarter started. Thirty seconds in and Coventry made their intentions clear, they were out to win this game and took the lead by hammering in eight in the first minute. With his team trailing by seven Coach Drane called a time out and the home crowd realised that they needed to get behind the boys in blue. With Westbourne echoing to the shouts of the supporters the Tomcats played both ends of the court to good effect and when Greenan leveled the teams by smashing in a dunk in front of the home supporters they showed their appreciation by simply getting louder.

Having struggled with his three point shooting all season Johnny Parodi couldn't have chosen a better game to find his form. As calm as you like, shooting from the side of the court he sank his second three pointer of the day putting the faintest hint of daylight between the teams, it was 87 - 86 and just three minutes left to play.

Two points from the free throw line by Jacob Swift pushed the Tomcats in the right direction, ahead by three but it was short lived with the Crusaders refusing to give up. Four points from open play had the visitors ahead by one with just over a minute remaining. Swift drew the foul as he sank two points but missed the shot from the line. Then Aaron Mosley grabbed another two points - it was time for a time out with just 46 seconds left on the clock and the score standing at 93 - 90.

When play resumed it was Coventry who got to the net first - a one point game with less than ten seconds to go, the crowd were on their feet, screaming, shouting, chanting - willing the home side to win. With the clock ticking down and the Tomcats with possession it was time for a Parodi moment, seeing his chance Johnny went for his hat trick and sank his third three pointer of the day to the delight of everyone supporting the Tomcats. Seconds later the final whistle went with the score standing at 96 - 92

Afterwards, an exhausted looking Nick Drane, the Tomcats Coach said: "I knew we'd win that game, I got a little worried when Coventry went ahead by 7 at the beginning of the final quarter, but I knew we'd win it. The crowd support certainly helped."

Tomcats players and scores: - M. Harbour (2), S. Calver, L. Greenan 29, J. Fairs, L. Fry, A. Moseley (Capt) (26), A. Burrows, S. Saggers (4), B. Potter, J. Swift (18), C Daley (8) and J Parodi (9)

Tony Bell reporting for suffolkbasketball.net

League game 12 - RAF National League East Midlands Conference - Saturday 18th March 2007

UH West Herts Warriors 92 � 106 Ipswich Tomcats

Ipswich saved their best til last as they travelled to West Herts in a winner takes all match for the East Midlands Conference Championship decider. On top of winning the division, the winner of the match would have the fortune of a home draw in the first round of the National play-offs. The loser would face the daunting task of an away trip to the much-fancied Doncaster Eagles.

The first quarter was tense, with both teams clearly nervous. For Ipswich it was Leigh Greenan taking the lead while for the hosts it�s was more balanced offence that kept the scores close in the first period. It ended with the Tomcats holding a slender lead, the score was 27-26 to Ipswich.

In the second Aaron Moseley got it going for Ipswich while West Herts key player Chute got himself in foul trouble after finding Christian Daley�s defence frustrating. By half time Ipswich had extended their lead but things were still very close. It was 45-41 to Ipswich.

In the third it was again the Greenan-Moseley combination that was keeping the Tomcats offence ticking over while Christian Daley played superb defence and Jacob Swift and Luke Fry showed their creative ability, getting the ball to the most dangerous player on the court � Leigh Greenan. Ipswich had began to open up their lead, they finished the period now up by double figures. 74-64.

In the fourth West Herts clawed the game back within four points, but again Greenan was unstoppable and his play, along with Aaron Moseley, Sam Saggers, Christian Daley, Luke Fry and a rejuvenated Jacob Swift ensured that Ipswich would not lose the game. With time running out West Herts tried to put Ipswich on the foul line, but Moseley and Swift calmly sank free throws to ensure a famous victory that secured the league title. Final score West Herts 92-Ipswich 106.

�A great team performance, with everybody playing their part and our star player stepping up when it really counted � They were all superb today, and Leigh�s 42 points was an example of why he�s one of the best players in the country,� said Tomcats Coach Nick Drane. He added �I�ve also got to give a mention to my coaching staff, Richard and Nick have been superb all season, supporting me and the boys and playing their part � In addition to the players, the travel etc.. There is so much paraphernalia to take care of. I couldn�t do it without them�

Top Scorers:Greenan 42, Moseley 30 and Swift 12.

League game 11 - RAF National League East Midlands Conference - Saturday 17th March 2007

Ipswich Tomcats 20 - 0 Leicester Dynamite - Game conceded by Leicester

League game 10 - RAF National League East Midlands Conference - Sunday 4th March 2007

Cambridge Cats 58 � 88 Ipswich Tomcats

The Ipswich Tomcats confirmed their qualification for the National Play-Offs for the first time in their history with an emphatic victory against the Cambridge Cats.

The game opened with Leigh Greenan in a dominant mood. The England international scored his teams first eight points of the game, including a huge dunk that saw Ipswich stamp their authority on the game. However, after picking up his second foul in only the fifth minute Ipswich were forced to change their game plan. Jacob Swift, back in the team after a two game absence took the game over and showed everybody what they had been missing as he connected on twelve points in the opening period. Ipswich lead after the first quarter 25 � 14.

In the second Aaron Moseley, the teams leading scorer since Christmas, sprang into life. The captain�s play complimented that of Jacob Swift and Leigh Greenan and with Luke Fry in fine play-making form the Tomcats were playing some of their best basketball of the season. Sam Saggers also got in on the act with a behind-the-back miracle shot as Ipswich extended their lead. The half-time score had increased to 49 � 26.

In the third period it was again Greenan that dominated the scoring, collecting twelve points in the period, and when Brad Potter was introduced and connected on a quick three-pointer the Tomcats looked well and truly on their way to the play-offs. The lead was now 71 � 38.

In the fourth regulars Luke Fry, Jacob Swift, Leigh Greenan and Aaron Moseley all took a seat on the bench and this allowed the teams bench players to enjoy some extended minutes and show what they could do. Nobody took this opportunity better than Bradley Potter who played his best game ever for the club. In addition to the contribution of Potter, Adam Burrows collected seven points in the final period and looked a polished player as the team finished the game well winning 88 � 58.

�It always nice to be able to use all twelve players, and see them all enjoy some court-time. It�s even sweeter because we qualified for the play-offs today and it was fitting that everybody made a contribution to the result. Particularly in the first half I thought we played well. In the second half I thought Brad Potter stole the show. Jacob came back in and quietly made a big impact, Leigh and Aaron were again good and Luke Fry is back to his best. It�s a relief to have finally qualified,� said Tomcats head coach Nick Drane.

Top Scorers: Greenan 27, Swift 20 and Moseley 13

League game 9 -RAF National League East Midlands Conference - Saturday 24th February 2007

"THE MOST DRAMATIC FINISH TO A GAME YOU WILL EVER SEE!"

LEICESTER DYNAMITE 78 - IPSWICH TOMCATS 79

The Ipswich Tomcats U18 Men travelled to Leicester to play in a game that will go down as their most dramatic victory ever.

Again travelling without Jacob Swift, who for the second week in a row had been left out, and of course with Michael Holbrook missing because of the horrific injury that broke his neck, the Tomcats started the game with Johnny Parodi joining regulars Sam Saggers, Luke Fry, Leigh Greenan and Captain Aaron Moseley.

In the first period it was behind the play of Aaron Moseley that the Tomcats took control of the game. With Leicester clearly well prepared, and ready for the threat of Leigh Greenan, the Tomcats struggled to get the ball inside to their leading scorer. But Aaron Moseley has been a different player since Christmas and he connected on twelve points in the opening period, primarily off the play-making of Luke Fry, as the Tomcats finished the quarter with a slender 27 � 23 lead.

In the second period the game slowed down, with both teams playing better defence. For Ipswich it was again the Greenan - Moseley combination, as well as five big points from Matt Harber that kept their offence ticking over while for Leicester it was the impressive Sithole that caused problems for the Tomcats. At half time Ipswich hadn�t increased their lead. The score was 45 � 41 to the visitors.

In the third Ipswich played their best basketball of the game. Christian Daley burst into life and connected on eight points in the period and a Johnny Parodi three pointer helped Ipswich extend the margin to ten points by the end of the period. The Tomcats lead 65 � 55.

The fourth period was where all the drama happened. Leicester clearly hadn�t given up and looked ready for a battle, while Ipswich looked like they had taken their foot off the pedal. With five minutes to go Ipswich�s lead had been halved and the hosts had the momentum. With two minutes to go the lead had again been reduced, but it was now tied. A Leigh Greenan three point play restored Ipswich�s lead to three points, but then two free throws and a lay up had Leicester in the lead by a single point.

With twenty-one seconds on the clock Ipswich looked to get the ball inside to Greenan, but a three second call gave Leicester the ball. Sithole then made an easy lay-up for the hosts to give them a three-point lead. With one second on the clock, Ipswich Coach Nick Drane called a time-out, and advanced the ball the mid-court. Aaron Moseley in bounded the ball to Luke Fry, who had managed to get free off a Leigh Greenan screen. Fry caught the ball turned a threw up a three-point shot, as the ball flew through the air the buzzer sounded, Fry�s three point shot dropped in the basket and amazingly the Leicester player had fouled Fry as he released the shot. The three points were awarded for the shot, the game now tied at seventy-eight apiece. With no time on the clock, Luke Fry had one free-throw to win the game. The Ipswich point guard calmly stepped up to the line and sunk the shot to win the game for Ipswich by a single point.

Final score: - Leicester Dynamite 78 � Ipswich Tomcats 79.

"I�ve been involved with basketball since I was eight years old. As a player, as a coach and as a fan watching the game on TV � I have never, ever, seen a game finish like that before. I feel sorry for Leicester because they must have felt that they had won the game, they played their hearts out and I have a massive amount of respect for them.

But, when there�s still time on the clock, even just one second, anything can happen. Luke has probably hit the biggest shot he will ever hit. Not only did it win us the game but it has also meant that we are just one more win from the play-offs, if we beat Cambridge next weekend, we are there," said Ipswich Head Coach Nick Drane. Assistant Coach Nick Newman added "With the week we have had, with Michael�s situation and again being without Jacob, this team deserved some luck � Leicester were superb, I really don�t understand their league position.

Top Scorers: Greenan 27, Moseley 25 and Daley 13.

League game 8 - RAF National League East Midlands Conference - Sunday 18th February 2007

Nene Valley Venom 64 � 73 Ipswich Tomcats

Ipswich produced a heroic performance in an emotional game in Peterborough. With Jacob Swift left out of the team and the news that Michael Holbrook lay in a hospital bed with a horrific, season ending neck injury the Tomcats were missing two key starters as they started this must-win game.

The first quarter opened with captain Aaron Moseley scoring on the fast break before their hosts replied from the foul line. And so it went for the first quarter. The two teams traded baskets before Nene Valley opened up an eight point gap, only for Luke Fry to connect on consecutive three-point shots to make the score 20-18 to the home team at the end of the first period.

In the second the Tomcats started the stronger of the two teams, and opened up a six point gap behind the combination of Leigh Greenan and Aaron Moseley. But Nene Valley connected on seven unanswered points at the end of the period to go in at half time with a one point advantage. 33 - 32.

The third quarter was totally dominated by England International Leigh Greenan. The 6�11 Centre dominated the game at both ends of the floor, changing shots and rebounding at the defensive end while scoring in the post on offence. The Tomcats quickly opened up a six point lead behind the play of their star player but after a basket Greenan got tangled up with one of the Venom players. The officials let the game continue but in his frustration Greenan took it upon himself to shove the player off of him. The referee then shocked everyone in the gym by deciding to eject Leigh Greenan from the game and this meant that the Tomcats would have to play the final seventeen minutes of the game without him.

It was at this stage that the home team realised that they had a great opportunity to cause an upset. However, the Tomcats are much more than a two or three man team as Christian Daley, so often overshadowed by Jacob Swift, suddenly came to life. Matt Harber and Luke Fry controlled the tempo of the game and Sam Saggers and Aaron Moseley ensured that Ipswich would win any physical battles. Eight straight points from Daley ensured that Ipswich extended their lead and went into the final period with an eight point advantage. 57 � 49.

In the fourth it was all about the Tomcats team effort. Without their usual scorers the team pulled together and behind the leadership of Aaron Moseley and Luke Fry the Tomcats managed to again extend their lead. Huge defensive plays from Moseley and Sam Saggers, as well as big free-throws from Matt Harber ensured that the Tomcats again increased their lead still further and finally won the game by nine points. 73 � 64.

�Today was about so much more than basketball. What has happened to Michael has really hit the whole team hard, we had tears in the changing rooms before the game. When you combine that with the fact that Jacob wasn�t selected today and we effectively played most of the second half without Leigh, we proved just how good we can be.

Aaron Moseley has stepped up a level since we made him captain and Luke Fry easily had his best game of the season; he was superb. The whole team contributed, even the guys that didn�t play, with their support and attitude from the bench.

We were up against it, emotions were running high, they got the better of Leigh but we still came away with a win,� said Tomcats coach Nick Drane. On the subject of Leigh Greenan�s ejection Drane added, "Leigh, at 5' 11" is a very big player and it obviously makes him more noticeable than most not only for his size but his undoubted ability. It does however make him more noticeable to all watching including the officials but this is a situation he has to learn to deal with even though he appears to be on the wrong end of some decisions".

Top Scorers: Moseley 22, Greenan 16 and Daley 14

Report Friendly Match - Saturday 10 February 2007.

Tomcats 103 - 51 Stowmarket Slammers

On Saturday the U18 Tomcats hosted the Stowmarket Slammers in a friendly game. The aim of the game was to maintan the fine form that the team has been in recently while playing a different kind of opposition - A Mens team would provide a far more physical opponent, a team much more geared up for a battle.

From start to finish the Tomcats looked good with steady performances from the bench while Aaron Moseley and Leigh Greenan again shone. Greenan finished with a game high 48 points while Jacob Swift again impressed at point guard, filling in for the injured Luke Fry. Michael Holbrook was consistent and helped himself to 12 points. as he looked more settled as a starter and Johnny Parodi looked superb off the bench. On defence Christian Daley recovered from a swisted ankle to be the catalyst as again the 'Cats' kept their opponents to a low total.

"I'm happy with that - Leigh and Aaron have become he leaders of the team in Luke's absence and I though they led from the front today. I hope Leigh is in this mood for the rest of the season" Said Tomcats Coach Nick Drane. "Chistian was an unsung hero today, he was a real predator on 'D', he didn't give his man an inch - Our defence across the board was tight" Added Assistant Coach Rich Godfrey.

Final score - Ipswich Tomcats 103 Stowmarket Slammers 51 Top Scorers:Greenan 48, Dailey 15 and Moseley 14

League game 7 - Report 1 -- Saturday 3 February 2007

Ipswich Tomcats 100 � 40 Wickford Knights

Aaron Moseley gave an inspirational display as the Tomcats stepped closer to the National Play-Offs with a classy performance against the Wickford Knights.

With Luke Fry sitting the game out due to his injured back, and regulars Johnny Parodi and Christian Dailey rested Ipswich Coach Nick Drane handed a debut to Shane D� Allesandro, and was able to offer extended minutes to Sam Calver � The Rookies didn�t disappoint.

The first quarter started slowly with the Tomcats only holding a narrow lead after five minutes. However, two consecutive dunks from Leigh Greenan got the team pumped up and eleven points in the quarter from captain Aaron Moseley saw Ipswich eventually open up a big lead. The first quarter finished 27 � 9.

The second quarter saw Coach Drane introduce some of the less experienced players into the line up. However, a number of quick fouls saw Ipswich in the foul penalty and Wickford enjoyed their best quarter of the match, with the majority of their points coming from the stripe. On offence Ipswich didn�t look themselves, and despite his huge physical advantage, Leigh Greenan�s size and quality was not being made best use of. The score was 43 � 23 to the Tomcats at the half.

In the third the game plan became clear, as Greenan was fed the ball again and again. Wickford had no real answer for the England International. When Greenan went to the bench for a well-earned rest Michael Holbrook stepped up and began to dominate the game. Holbrook came up with a huge blocked shot before feeding Moseley for a lay-up and then he collected a lose ball and threw down the dunk of the day. Suddenly Michael Holbrook was a different player. Greenan was re-introduced and played alongside Holbrook as the Tomcats boasted a 6� 10" and 6� 7" front line. The score at the end of the period was 71 � 35.

In the fourth the Tomcats put on a dunking show for the crowd. James Fairs and Michael Holbrook in particular shone as the Tomcats extended their lead. Fittingly it was Aaron Moseley who scored the final points of the game, the stand-in skipper was the best player on the court. Final score Ipswich 100 � Wickford 40.

�I asked for a quality performance from the boys and I got my way, so I�m delighted. The decision to leave out a few regulars and give an opportunity to Shane and Sam Calver paid off � They have both given me a real selection headache. I also have to give special praise to Aaron Moseley, Leigh and Jacob tend to dominate the stats sheet so it was good for Aaron, who is usually renowned for his work rate, to get the limelight today � He was exceptional� said Ipswich Coach Nick Drane

Top Scorers: Moseley 24, Greenan 19, Holbrook 18.

League game 7 - Report 2 - - Saturday 3 February 2007 - "The Tomcats � all about Holbrook."

Ipswich Tomcats 100 � 40 Wickford Knights

Referees: Mr K. Fish & Mr. T. Fisher

Circumstances at Westbourne Sports College have led the Tomcats to play their last two home games at Holbrook High School�s new sports hall. Saturday�s game however wasn�t about the venue, it was about Holbrook the player � Michael Holbrook.

In a squad of lively extroverts, Michael is the quite man. A purposeful player, he sometimes gets overshadowed by the slightly taller Leigh Greenan, none-the-less he always gets the job done whether on offence or D.

Playing almost all of the forty minutes, his confidence grew as the game progressed, noticed not only by his coaches, but also by his team mates. When he sank his first dunk the Tomcats bench went wild.

Saturday�s opponents were Wickford Knights who came to Ipswich on a high, having won their first game of the season by a single point the previous weekend against Lincolnshire. When they played the Tomcats last November the result went comprehensively in Ipswich�s favor, beating them by 94 points.

The Tomcat�s captain, Luke Fry, was out of action because of a back injury leaving Aaron Mosley to lead the team. The team�s physio, Nigel Potter, was keeping a close eye on Lee Greenan who fell heavily on his knee in Friday�s coaching session but was showing no ill effects.

Resting some of the regular squad, the coach had given squad members Ross Wing, Sam Calver and Shane d�Allesandro the opportunity of court time. None of the three would disappoint.

Within seconds of the Tipoff, the Tomcats had their first points on the scoresheet and were slightly taken aback when Wickford retaliated straight away. Unrattled, the home side got into their stride and five minutes in had pulled out a small lead of 4 points.

When Wickford called a time out it was the Tomcats who came back fighting, scoring straight from the re-start. A louder and more confident Tomcat�s bench were supporting their on-court team mates and the atmosphere made a difference.

On court Holbrook and Mosley were as one, each there for the other�s rebounds, Greenan�s characteristic grunt adding to the cacophony of his dunks.

By the end of the quarter the Tomcats train was well and truly on track with the score line standing at 27 � 9

In the second quarter the home side seemed to lose the plot on offence to begin with, whilst maintaining good defense. Coach Drane�s time out four minutes in didn�t seem to have the desired effect - this would transpire to be the Tomcats lowest scoring quarter, only managing 2 more points than the opposition. At the half way point the score was 43 - 23

After a brief interval the game resumed and whatever Coach Drane said in the changing room worked. Six minutes in and the home side had scored 14 to the visitors 6. It was at this point that the noise level rose as Holbrook dunked � there was no stopping them now, the quarter ended 71 � 35

The final period of play was all about the Tomcats. Wickford�s spirit had been broken. To prove it wasn�t a fluke, Holbrook was dunking again � if nothing else because his coach had actually missed the first one! James Fairs, who never likes to be left out of things, showed he can do it too with two dunks in close succession.

It was a punishing quarter on Wickford , the frustration evident in the technical fouls called by the ref on their coach & bench and the fact that they only managed 5 points against the Tomcats 29. The final score 100 � 40

Let us not forget the part played by the others: Matt Harber, Adam Burrows, Sam Saggers and Bradley Potter � for this was a professional team effort.

Each Ipswich win brings the playoff prospects closer and closer, with only one more home game to play the Tomcats are effectively on the road for the remainder of the season, arch rivals West Herts Warriors on the other hand have the luxury of a string of home games. West Herts haven�t lost a home game yet, Ipswich have a 100% record on the road � the game of the season and possibly the league deciding game takes place on 17^th March when the Tomcats travel to the Warriors.

Tony Bell reporting for Suffolkbasketball.net.

League game 6 - Saturday 13 January 2007

Result: - Ipswich Tomcats 73 - 49 Lincoln Cougars

Ipswich made it five league wins in a row and maintained their lead at the top of the East Midlands Conference of the National League with a comfortable win against Lincoln Cougars.

Circumstances at Westbourne Sports College led to a change of venue as Ipswich, for the first time, would use the brand new Holbrook Sports Centre as their home court.

The home side started brightly, Lee Greenan stamped his authority on the game early and Jacob Swift attacked the basket with his usual aggressiveness. However, it was the Tomcats much improved defence that saw them hold their opponents to just nine points in the opening period. It finished 17 � 9.

The second quarter saw Ipswich extend their lead by just a single point, but it was enough to give them a double digit going into the interval � Sam Calver had been introduced for the first time this season and the youngster jumped at the chance, playing a key role in Ipswich maintaining their advantage.

The third period saw Lincoln cause a scare by pulling within six points, however after a time-out from their Coach the Tomcats seemed to be re-focused. Aaron Moseley led the change as Ipswich managed to re-build their lead. The quarter was finished off in style as Lee Greenan dunked the ball shortly before the buzzer � The lead was again up to double figures.

The fourth quarter saw Ipswich quickly squash any chance of a comeback from their visitors. Jacob Swift took the game over connecting on fourteen points in the quarter as Ipswich eventually broke their opponents spirit and blew the game open by more than twenty points. The final score was 73 � 49 to Ipswich.

�That was a steady if unspectacular performance � All the boys did their job and I felt that we were always in control. There were no hero�s today, everybody just did their job and we got another important win� said Tomcats Head Coach Nick Drane. �This was their first time on this court and it took some getting used to, but the lads just dealt with it and pushed through for a another step towards the play-offs� added Assistant Coach Nick Newman.

Top Scorers:Swift 24, Greenan22 and Moseley 11.

League game 5 - Sat 9 December 2006

Lynx Lincoln Cougars 29 � 75 Ipswich Tomcats

Lee Greenan scored as many points as the opposition as Ipswich secured a fourth straight league win and ensure that they will enter the Christmas break as the team sitting at the top of the East-Midlands Conference of the National League.

Lincoln started the better of the two teams, showing little signs of being intimidated by the far bigger Ipswich side as they raced out to an impressive 16 � 6 lead early in the first quarter. However, the Tomcats eventually calmed down and went about pegging back their hosts lead. Lee Greenan dominated the paint and Jacob Swift connected on six straight before a Sam Saggers three-pointer eventually saw the Tomcats tie the game at 20-20 after the first period.

In the second Ipswich upped their defensive intensity, Michael Holbrook combined with Greenan to dominate the boards at both ends of the floor and Christian Daley and again Sam Saggers handled much of the scoring load for the Tomcats. Greenan was quietly dismantling the opposition, by half time Ipswich had increased their points total to 36 while holding Lincoln to just one basket in the period. The Tomcats lead 36 � 23.

The third quarter followed a similar pattern with the Tomcats now motoring. If anything the visitors seemed to again up their defensive aggressiveness, lead by the outstanding Christian Daley. Greenan continued to dominate and the team moved the ball and found open shots and easy lay-ups again and again. The score was increased, an impressively the Tomcats had not allowed their hosts to score and single point in the third period.

The fourth period saw the Tomcats rest a number of key payers, including Jacob Swift, who was left on the bench for the entire second half to ensure that he was in good shape for his National Team training session in Glasgow on Sunday. Michael Holbrook had his best game of the season, as did Johnny Parodi and Brad Potter as the bench did more then their faire share of keeping the team ticking over. By the final buzzer to Tomcats had extended their lead to fifty-six points, holding their opponents to just nine points in the final three periods. The final score was Lincoln 29 � Ipswich 75.

�This was an important weekend for us. We travelled up on the Friday night to allow the boys to be properly prepared for the game. With Lincoln beating West Herts last week it was important that we won so we could go into the Christmas break in pole position. After a shaky start we showed what we are about, and also played our best defence of the season. Christian Daley was the catalyst for a lot of that defensive improvement and Lee just dominated the whole game � We are looking in pretty good shape at this stage� Said Tomcats Head Coach Nick Drane. Tomcats Assistant Coach Rich Godfrey added, �After a shaky start they boys showed their character and powered through for a great win�.

League Game 4 - Saturday 25th November 2006, Westbourne College, Ipswich

Ipswich Tomcats 93 - 73 Cambridge Cats

Referees: Mr. P Kricka and Mr. T Fisher

Ipswich Tomcats took to the court at 3:30 against Cambridge Cats for their fourth league game of the season. The two teams had come together earlier this season in the national cup when Ipswich traveled to Cambridge and returned victorious.

This however was a different, stronger Cambridge team and they were the first to the basket, the sides swapping points for the first five minutes. Coach Drane called his first time out just after the half way point. The talking to worked as the home side turned a 3 point lead into a 13 point lead with one and a half minutes to go, Cambridge pulling back slightly to end the quarter 23 - 15

Cambridge's captain, Robert Wright, kept the visitors in the game with some excellent shooting. Then the Cats lost Wallice Williams to injury half way through the second period while the Tomcats worked hard to maintain their lead. Using Big Leigh's height and Luke Fry's hustling skills they just about did it, ending the half 45 - 36

The visitors came out fighting in the second half, at one point reducing the deficit to a mere four points. Towards the end of the quarter a substitution by Cambridge caused the table officials to halt the game as the player coming on to court was wearing #9 - there was no #9 listed on the team sheet. Changing to what he believed was the correct vest he then became #7 and finally we welcomed him as #8 once registration cards had been examined! The Tomcats had increased their lead in the quarter with the scores standing at 66 - 51 on the buzzer.

The Tomcats were ahead on points and confidence going into the final quarter, Cambridge were beginning to crack and discipline began to weaken. Giving away two shots and possession after a technical foul was called on the Cambridge's Nick O'Leary, their coach called a time out to remind his players not to foul if they were to regain control of the game.

Despite the scrappy nature of the quarter, it was the Tomcats Big C who impressed - Christian Daley got the crowd shouting again as he scrapped through the chaos and made a beautiful lay-up followed by a less successful attempt that was rescued by Greenan's crashing dunk.

Although trailing by 17, the Cambridge team's strength of character showed right to the end - they simply never gave up. With one second remaining on the clock a fifth and final foul on Auatin Wright saw him walk to the Cambridge bench as James Fairs stepped up to the line to sink two from two and finish the game 93 - 73

The result means that Ipswich Tomcats are top of the league this week with their arch rivals for the title, West Herts Warriors having a weekend off.

Tomcats players & scorers: M. Harbour, R. Wing, M. Holbrook (2), J. Fairs (4), L. Fry (8), A. Moseley (4), A Burrows, S. Saggers (7), B. Potter, J. Swift (24), C. Daley (6) and L. Greenan (38).

Tony Bell reporting for

League Game 3 - NATIONAL LEAGUE U18 JUNIOR MEN - EAST-MIDLANDS CONFERENCE - Sat 11 November 2006

IPSWICH TOMCATS 123 � 75 NENE VALLEY VENOM.

Ipswich made it three wins in a row with another comfortable victory in front of a big crowd at Westbourne Sports College.

Sam Saggers opened the scoring, and with Leigh Greenan and Jacob Swift finding their scoring touch early it was clear that it was going to be another high scorer. The teams two leading scorers looked in unstoppable mood, as did Christian Daley as the Tomcats racked up a 35 � 21 lead at the end of the first quarter.

In the second period the Tomcats seemed to lose concentration and this allowed Nene Valley to gain some confidence. However, although the Visitors had some hope, they were only able to reduce their host lead by a single point. The score at the half was 55 � 42 to Ipswich.

In the third period Ipswich came out like a different team. Aaron Moseley�s defensive intensity allowed Ipswich to cause three quick turnovers and Moseley first fed Sam Saggers for a lay-up, then Jacob Swift for a three-pointer and finally Leigh Greenan for an easy two. Ipswich were motoring, they played their best basketball of the game and looked a formidable team with all five players picking up points. Swift fed Luke Fry on the break for a lay-up, Sam Saggers knocked down a big three-pointer after some beautiful ball movement and Leigh Greenan brought the house down with a monster dunk out of the post. Ipswich now lead 90 � 59.

The final period saw Swift, Fry, Moseley and eventually Greenan take a seat on the bench to allow the team�s bench players to enjoy some extended minutes. James Fairs leapt at the chance as he knocked down a three-pointer within seconds of coming in. Michael Holbrook scored on a strong move to the basket and Matt Harber ensured the team were running their offence properly. Fairs connected again, this time out of the low post, before two straight fast break baskets and the team�s final points of the game, and perhaps the most spectacular, receiving Michael Holbrook�s long outlet pass Fairs beat his man before taking off and dunking the ball over the top of a Nene Valley player. The crowd erupted and Ipswich won the game 123 � 75.

"The second half performance was outstanding, at both ends of the floor. The first half was not great. Another win is good, that�s now three in a row and we go to Brixton full of confidence and with nothing to lose. Leigh and Jacob were their usual selves today but a lot of credit needs to go to Aaron Mosley and Christian Daley, who were the catalyst for a lot of what happened at the defensive end. And what about James Fairs though, fifteen points, a three and a huge dunk � He was just awesome when he went in." Nick Drane said.

TOP SCORERS: Greenan 35, Swift 30 and Fairs 15.

League Game 3 - Report from Suufolkbaketball.net

NATIONAL LEAGUE U18 JUNIOR MEN - EAST-MIDLANDS CONFERENCE - Sat 11 November 2006

Ipswich Tomcats 123 � 75 Nene Valley Venom

11th November 2006, Westbourne Sports College, Ipswich

Referees: Mr. T. Fisher & Mr. P. Kricka

Ipswich Tomcats consolidated their resounding win over Wickford Knights last weekend with another impressive performance at Westbourne on Saturday against Nene Valley Venom.

The home side came out fighting with Sam Saggers first to the basket and Leigh Greenan using his height to good effect under the net. In the opening four minutes the Tomcats appeared more organised with Nene Valley taking time to get into their stride. A time out on five minutes resulted in the Tomcats returning to court and producing 10 points for only 3 in reply from the visitors. By the end of the quarter it was 35 - 21

Despite Jacob Swift's skills at hiding the ball from the opposition by rolling it around his back and Christian Daly's hunger for rebounds the Tomcats seemed uncharacteristically disorganised in the second quarter. After a scrappy session during which Nene Valley began to close the gap Coach Drane called another timeout to get his team back on track. At the half way point it was 55 - 42

A stern talking to during the break saw the Tomcats come back on court more focused and determined. Arron Mosley started a two minute spell during which the Tomcats got all of their on court players on the scoresheet with no reply from Nene Valley. The visitors couldn't match the now on form home team and when Greenan dunked in the closing minutes the home crowd went wild. Almost there and the score was 90 - 59

Buoyed by their dominance in the third the Tomcats came out wanting more, James Fairs opening the final quarter with a three point shot. For two minutes the sides exchanged points then the home side simply dropped the clutch and put it in gear sinking 14 for no reply mostly at the hands of Leigh Greenan. Nene Valley gained most of their points in the final minutes from the free throw line but the Tomcats had their hard work done by Fairs who hustled in defense and sank the last 8 points for his side in dunking style. It ended 123 - 75

Coach Drane's squad showed their potential in the second half but the next test for the Tomcats is a tough one when they travel to Brixton for the next round of the National Cup on Sunday 19th November.

Tomcats players & scorers: M. Harbour, J. Parodi (2), M. Holbrook (7), J. Fairs (13), L. Fry (4), A. Moseley (9), A Burrows, S. Saggers (13), A. Dixon, J. Swift (32), C. Daley (4) and L. Greenan (39).

T. Bell reporting for SuffolkBasketball.net

League Game 2 - NATIONAL LEAGUE U18 JUNIOR MEN - EAST-MIDLANDS CONFERENCE - WICKFORD KNIGHTS 65 � 159 IPSWICH TOMCATS

All twelve Tomcats managed to get on the score-sheet as Ipswich recorded their first league win of the season and sent out a message to the rest of the league.

The first quarter started with Leigh Greenan scoring on a strong move to the basket, something that would repeat itself throughout the game, Greenan�s basket was matched by Denning from the home side before Ipswich went about stamping their authority on the game. Jacob Swift, Sam Saggers and the dominant Leigh Greenan all helped themselves to baskets on a scoring streak that saw the Wickford Coach use both his first-half time-outs inside the first five minutes of the game. However, this did not stop the Ipswich pressure as the period finished convincingly 48 � 9 to the visitors.

In the second period Ipswich continued to find the basket but were far more generous in what they gave the opposition. Luke Fry took a break from setting others up while he helped himself to two quick three-pointers, Matt Harber enjoyed his best period of play since joining the Tomcats and again Greenan and Jacob Swift were free-scoring as Ipswich went in at half-time with a 94 � 33 lead.

In the third the Ipswich bench was rotated but their intensity didn�t waver as Christian Daley and Aaron Moseley got in on the scoring act, Jacob Swift also collected twelve straight points, including his third dunk of the game as Ipswich increased their lead going into the final period they had extended their lead to 129 � 44.

The fourth period saw Ross Wing and Michael Holbrook spring into life. Holbrook, grabbed this opportunity with both hands as he collected five quick points while dominating the boards, Ross Wing�s explosive quickness helped him record eight points in the period. Tomcats finished the game, winning by their largest ever margin, 159 � 65.

"This was a good professional performance, it would be easy to take our foot off the gas and just take things easy but that�s not going to help the boys improve. Our intensity levels were excellent today and everybody played their role and made a contribution. However, we still need to make big improvements if we want to get to the play-offs and continue our cup run." Said Ipswich Coach Nick Drane.

Top Scorers: Greenan 49, Swift 43 and Fry 18

Other Weekend Scores: - Lynx Cougars Lincoln 33 - 58 Leicester Dynamite, UH West Herts Warriors 71 - 64 Cambridge Cats

SURESHOT NATIONAL CUP ROUND 1 - Cambridge Cats 42 - 67 Ipswich Tomcats

Sunday 22nd October 2006, Impington Sixth Form College, Cambridge - Referees: Mr Ian Reid & Mr Mark Cheese

Ipswich Tomcats Junior Men took to the road for the first time this season when they travelled to Cambridge to take on Cambridge Cats in the first round of the Sure Shot Cup.

Cambridge's Coach Wedderburn was expecting a difficult game and commenting on last week's close game between the Tomcats and West Herts Warriors he was of the opinion that the league would be between these two teams this season.

The Tomcats impressed as they walked on court - they had height on their side and nothing makes an impression on a basketball court more than tall players, except maybe tall, loud players. The Tomcats took the volume award before Tip-Off.

Cambridge were first to the net with Williams opening the scoring but the Tomcats soon retaliated when Leigh Greenan sunk the ball at the other end. The slippery floor took a little getting used to for both teams; this not being Cambridge's regular court.

Ipswich put together a display of team playing which saw all of the players working together to make the score 4 - 10 in just under five minutes. That was enough for Cambridge to call a time out.

Whatever Coach Wedderburn said it worked - the Cats came back re-energised and drew level at 14 - 14. Shortly afterward they took the lead - Jacob Swift was having none if this, making sure he levelled the score and then some - they finished the quarter just five points ahead: 16 - 21

The Tomcats came out for the second quarter in turbo mode, if possible this game was about to get faster. Good defence and fast breaks resulted in and further 10 points for Ipswich to only 2 in reply from the hosts. A foul on Jacob Swift towards the end of the quarter gave him the opportunity to add to his personal tally, but Jacob is not noted for his shooting from the line. Coach Drane offered to pay for a driving lesson if he made both baskets... two more points and va va vroom - the half finished 20 - 35

The second half opened with a stunning three pointer from Luke Fry as the Tomcats piled on the pressure ensuring the points went in and that their defence held up. Cambridge continually hit the hoop, the backboard or just plain air-ball, but it wasn't for lack of trying that they only managed to score 5 points in the period against Tomcats' 17 - the third quarter finished 25 - 52

With Cambridge in foul trouble as they entered the final quarter, a confident and professional looking squad in blue matched the home team's scoring in what turned out to be Cambridge�s best of the game. The final score was 42 - 67

Coach Drane was happy with the result but even happier with his team's performance. Coach Wedderburn knew he had a tough game on his hands from the start but was encouraged by the fact that his team had not been walked over, they fought and fought hard keeping Ipswich to under 70 points. "We've got to play these guys two more time in the league, and I'm going to look forward to those games."

Tomcats top scorers: Leigh Greenan 16, Jacob Swift 11, Luke Fry 11

As the rain fell on the A14, it was a happy coach load of Tomcats that came back to Ipswich. Their next Cup game will see them play Brixton Topcats on 19th November in Brixton - the home of basketball in London.

Tony Bell reporting for Suffolkbasketball.net

League game 1 - Tomcats lose out in thriller Ipswich Tomcats 95 - 98 UH West Herts Warriors

The Ipswich Tomcats played their first league game of the season on Saturday at home to the league favourites West Herts Warriors. Over 200 people were crammed into the gymnasium at Westbourne Sports College to witness a truly thrilling encounter.

West Herts took an early lead in the game, with only Jacob Swift able to reply for the hosts. It was clear straight away that the game was going to be a high scorer with both teams playing an up-tempo style of basketball. West Herts attempted to extend their lead but Ipswich, in spite of Leigh Greenan�s foul trouble were able to keep in touching distance, primarily behind the play of Jacob Swift and Christian Daley, who contributed to 20 of the Tomcats 22 points in the first period.

The second quarter saw Michael Holbrook stamp his mark on the game for the Tomcats which helped Ipswich steal the lead from their opponents and with Leigh Greenan back in the game the home team looked the more settled of the two teams. Matt Harber, Ollie Williams and Sam Saggers connected on key three-pointers and Swift continued to find the basket as Ipswich held off their opponents despite Greenan�s third foul to go in at the half leading by 3. Ipswich lead 49 � 46.

The third quarter could hardly have started worse for Ipswich with England International Leigh Greenan rolling an ankle and having to retire to the bench to receive treatment from team physio Nigel Potter. The teams again traded baskets and again it was Jacob Swift carrying much of the scoring load for the Tomcats, Aaron Moseley also stepped up his game in the absence of Greenan as well as another Sam Saggers three-pointer and the quarter finished tied at 73.

The fourth quarter started with Greenan back in the game for the hosts, but the heavily strapped ankle was obviously hindering the big-man�s play. This resulted in another foul and yet another trip to the bench for the Ipswich star but again the team kept themselves in the game without their centre. The Tomcats began to find their rhythm and managed to open up a seven point lead, but seven points can be turned around in a matter of seconds in a game of basketball as West Herts showed. The visitors, still struggled to contain Jacob Swift but at the other end West Herts didn�t find picking holes in the Ipswich defence very difficult and with less than a minute on the clock a controversial travelling call against Ipswich was greeted with hostility from the home crowd and gave West Herts an extra offence from which they scored. Greenan was again re-entered into the game but quickly picked up his fifth foul meaning despite playing in ever quarter he had played less than fifteen minutes in the entire game. As time wound down Christian Daley had a three-point shot on the buzzer to take the game to overtime but as the ball rolled agonizingly in and out of the hoop the reality hit home that Ipswich had lost by the narrowest of margins.

"Today was a great day for local basketball. Over 200 people came to watch our boys play and I�m just gutted that we weren�t able to give the crowd a win. These games are always the toughest games to lose because we all know that we were inches away from a victory. When you consider that we essentially have the same team that played U16 Conference last year the improvement we have shown is quite remarkable. However, I think we should have won and the boys know that we only have 12 league games this season and we can�t do what we did last season and wait until we have lost three or four before we start boxing out and playing defence. With the offensive talent we have in this team scoring shouldn�t be a problem so we need to work hard in other areas. Jacob�s performance today deserved a win, that�s the best he has ever played"

Top Scorers: Swift 37, Daley 13 and Saggers 12