By Sam Phillips

Norwood Flames 80 | Sturt Sabres 59

Norwood led from start to finish, displaying their class on the way to a 21 point victory over a gallant Sturt outfit, 80-69.

Matt Lycett and Jacob Holmes got Norwood off to a strong start, combining for 15 points for the quarter.

Sturt showed elements of their passing game, getting open looks in the corners but were unable to capitalize - going into the break down by 11, 24-13.

The Sabres started the second with more energy, with the teams trading baskets in an open affair. Max Calligeros (9 pts, 6 rebounds) was a strong presence inside the key for Sturt, hitting two crucial consecutive shots to keep the margin to 10.

Daniel Webber began to assert himself, scoring 6 points and pulling down 4 rebounds. Norwood would prove to be superior in rebounds, (Matt Long and Jacob Holmes with 9 each for the game) giving their players first use of the play and repeat entries (11 more than Sturt).

Norwood extended their lead to 17 at the main change, 44-27.

Norwood continued to control the match, with Sturt coach Paul Rigoni urging his players to increase the tempo of their game to get back in the match.

Fans would appreciate the effort from Sturt was there, but Norwood took their opportunities and pressured Sturt into turning the ball over far too often (15-7 turnovers).

Ultimately much of the heat had gone out of the match in the second half, with both sides getting good minutes into their bench.

Jan Warbout (12 rebounds, 7 pts) tried hard all night and Hamish Burns (9 pts) was good off the bench, especially in the last quarter.

Isaac White and Josiah Lee were lively early for Sturt, but ultimately down on their recent outputs. Jacob Rigoni (11 pts, 5 rebounds) contributed strongly and Nathan Kareta had useful last half, passing well to collect 4 assists.

Norwood had number of solid contributors, Matt Long (15 pts, 9 rebounds) had an excellent game as did Daniel Webber (14 pts, 8 rebounds). Matt Lycett was particularly influential in the first half, finishing with a game high 19 points (also 7 rebounds).

Fans will be looking forward to Norwood’s round 11 clash with the Southern Tigers, to assess themselves against a side who is proving to be the benchmark of the competition.

Round 9: Saturday, 7 May at 8:15pm

North Adelaide Rockets v Sturt Sabres @ Hillcrest

West Adelaide Bearcats v Norwood Flames @ Port Adelaide