Acerca de
Under 12 Boys
Match Reports
Saturday 12th March
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Scorpions fell agonisingly short in a low scoring game against local rivals, Brentwood Fire. Scorpions will reflect on a disappointing shooting performance (converting just 8 of 42 first half shots) and a high turnover count (46 to Fire’s 27) as the key statistics behind the defeat.
It was a physical game, played at a high tempo throughout. Fire put the first points on the board; however, it was the Scorpions starting five who caught the eye with some excellent team basketball, Nathanial Dwumfour put through a couple of beautiful defence splitting passes, the first of which was converted by Charlie Steward to get Scorpions on the board. For all their good approach play, Scorpions could only add a further point, through Tom Buscombe who split a pair at the line. Fire led 7-3 as the fives changed with Scorpions having shot just 10% from the field. Scores from Gabriele Scuderi and Albie Lyons plus points at the line from Mason Russell and Schmaiah Bgwereketai were not enough to pull things round as Fire led 15-9 at the end of the first. However, Scorpion’s efforts to eat into Fire’s early lead were hampered when they were forced into a change after Russell sustained an injury in a heavy fall. Thankfully, the injury wasn’t serious, and Russell was able to re-join the action in the second period.
Scorpions fought back strongly in the second quarter, a score from James Hawes was followed by a point at the line from Albie Lyons. Gabriele Scuderi was the next to take a heavy fall, following an unsportsmanlike foul as he was pushed driving to the basket. Scuderi could not convert from the line and having retained possession of the ball, Scorpions also failed to convert with their next shot. Whist Scorpions were guilty of putting up several shots when passes were the better option, they also saw several close-range efforts bounce, role and bobble around the ring before dropping the wrong side of the hoop. Tom Buscombe finally got a couple to drop and with Russell and Steward also scoring, Scorpions finished strongly to reduce Fire’s lead to just a single point, 21-20 as the sides headed to the locker room.
Fire started the third quarter strongly, stretching their lead to 7 points at the mid-point, with scores from Hawes and Dwumfour keeping Scorpions interested. Scorpions fought back with two scores from Russell and one from Steward before the Fire offensive got going again. Scorpions enjoyed the final possession of the quarter, and with 9 seconds left on the clock, a weaving run from Steward ended with him stepping around the last Fire defender and putting up his shot just before the buzzer went. The shot was good and left Scorpions trailing by 5, 37-32.
Despite Scorpions best efforts, Fire initially stretched their lead to nine points (45-36) before a late rally from Scorpions, which saw them shoot a much improved 32% in the second half, reduced the deficit to 4 (arguably 2 as it appeared that a basket from Scuderi was not recorded in the scorebook) but it was not enough to prevent Fire from claiming the win. Regardless of any scorebook inaccuracies, Scorpions will know that their first half shooting woes framed this defeat.
The defeat leaves Scorpions in third place, finishing their campaign with a 7-9 record. However, with both Fire (7-5) and NASSA (7-7) having games in hand, further wins for either team will push Scorpions down the table.
Scorers for Scorpions: Charlie Steward (12), Tom Buscombe (8), Mason Russell (7), James Hawes (6), Albie Lyons (5), Nathaniel Dwumfour (2), Gabriele Scuderi (2) and Schmaiah Bgwereketai (1).
Saturday 5th March 2022
Southend Scorpions 62
Brentwood Leopards 46
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Scorpions produced arguably their best performance of the season as they recorded a convincing tip to buzzer victory, keeping their hopes of a third-place finish alive.
A drive from Charlie Steward gave Scorpions the lead, which was doubled by Nathaniel Dwumfour scoring the first of three baskets as he dominated around the basket during the early exchanges. Leopards dangerman (Adediyi – who scored a game high 30pts when the teams first met earlier in the season) kept Leopards in the game with six points to leave Scorpions with a one-point lead (9-8) as the fives changed. Scorpions, playing with a good tempo and excellent movement off the ball, began to get the upper hand. A Theo Copsey score off a rebound and a layup after a fine dribble by Hunter Wright stretched Scorpion’s lead. Gabriele Scuderi assisted with a long defence splitting pass for a Tom Buscombe score, with Buscombe returning the favour shortly afterwards. A mid-range score from James Hawes ensured Scorpions finished the quarter with a 10-point lead, 23-13.
Hawes opened the scoring for Scorpions in the second quarter which was followed by a score from Buscombe who converted a pair of free throws shortly afterwards. Scorpions’ excellent defensive efforts continued to frustrate Leopards in a period which also saw Scorpions dominate off the boards. Steward, Hawes (twice), Scuderi, Dwumfour (who would finish with a season high 11 points), Mason Russell and Albie Lyons all scored as Scorpions dominated the quarter, taking a 43-21 lead into the locker room.
Scorpions continued to move the ball around well in the third quarter and worked hard to create opportunities to score. However, they encountered greater resistance from the Leopards defence and Scorpions were made to work harder for their points. Scorpions improved ball retention helped them achieve a season low turnover count of 27, something that will have pleased the Scorpions coaches. A score from Russell was followed by arguably the best move of the match as Scorpions worked the ball around the arc and finished the move with Scuderi providing another defence splitting assist, picking out the cutting Dwumfour for an easy layup. A pair of scores from Buscombe and one from Steward shared the spoils, as Leopards put in an improved offensive performance, at 11 each to maintain a Scorpions advantage of 54-32 going into the final quarter.
With a commanding lead, Scorpions were able to ensure all 12 players got good minutes on court. Scorpions lost Russell, who had done an excellent job guarding Adediyi, to an ankle injury during the fourth quarter. Having lost Russell, Scorpions struggled to contain Adediyi who would go to lead all scorers with 22 points. Scores from Hawes, Lyons and Steward were enough to ensure that Scorpions finished their home campaign with a win and their highest points tally of the season.
Scorers for Scorpions: Tom Buscombe (12), James Hawes (12), Nathaniel Dwumfour (11), Charlie Steward (8), Gabriele Scuderi (6), Mason Russell (5), Albie Lyons (4), Theo Copsey (2) and Hunter Wright (2).
SATURDAY 26th FEBRUARY 2022
Braintree Blue Devils 23
Southend Scorpions 53
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Scorpions got back to winning ways with a controlled performance, securing them a comfortable win against bottom of the table Braintree.
A Mason Russell layup put the first points on the board. A layup from Albie Lyons doubled the lead before the hosts hit back to level the scores. A second score from Lyons, putting back from an offensive rebound put Scorpions back in front and it was a lead they would retain through to the final buzzer. An ‘and one’ from Russell closed out the first 5 minutes, with Scorpions up by 9-4 as the fives changed. A couple of drives from Charlie Steward, weaving his way through the Braintree defence, stretched Scorpion’s lead to 15-9 at the end of the first quarter.
Scorpions completely dominated the second quarter, demonstrating good ball retention and movement transferring the drills practised in training. Gabriele Scuderi led the way dishing out three assists in quick succession to give scores to James Hawes and Tom Buscombe. Scuderi added a bucket himself and further scores from Hawes and a pair from Russell at the line gave Scorpions an 11-0 run. Scorpions pressing defence restricted Braintree to a solitary score, after which Scuderi and Buscombe gave Scorpions an 8-0 run to close out the quarter, taking Scorpions to a commanding 34-11 lead at the half.
Scorpions continued to impress in the third quarter, taking their time to move the ball around and not rush their shots. Buscombe and Scuderi both scored before Braintree hit back with a couple of buckets of their own. Two further buckets from Russell, one from an exquisite defence splitting pass from Otis Luton, and a score from Hunter Wright closed out the quarter with Scorpions stretching their lead to 29 points (44-15).
Scorpions started the final quarter with a five consisting of four-year sixes and one year five. The youngsters continued to play good, controlled basketball moving the ball around in search of good ‘looks’ at the basket. Braintree scored the first points of the quarter, with an Otis Luton layup replying for Scorpions. After a further score from Braintree, Wright finished an excellent passing move, attacking space left in the key to score from close range. At the mid-point of the quarter Scorpions changed their five, putting the year sevens back on court. Scores from Steward and Scuderi cancelled out two scores from Braintree to ensure the win.
Scorpions controlled performance was reflected in the stats, as they recorded a season low turnover count and season high assists (10) and blocks (3).
Scorers for Scorpions: Tom Buscombe (13), Mason Russell (11), Gabriele Scuderi (9), Charlie Steward (6), James Hawes (4), Albie Lyons (4), Hunter Wright (4) and Otis Luton (2).
Saturday 5th February
Southend Scorpions 45
NASSA 53
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The third quarter, which Scorpions lost by 15 points to 3, proved to be the difference in what was otherwise a closely fought contest.
It was the visitors who scored first, and they then stretched their lead to five points with a shot from downtown. Not to be outdone, Charlie Steward drove in for a layup to get Scorpions on the board and Steward then levelled the scores with a ‘nothing but net’ shot from beyond the arc. NASSA then edged ahead again to leave Scorpions trailing 5-9 at the mid-point of the first quarter. Having drawn players out of the key, Schmaiah Bgwereketai scored with an explosive drive inside. Excellent work under the basket from Lucas Rotariu saw him score with two baskets in quick succession. At the other end, Scorpions defence held firm as they shut out the NASSA offence. A layup from Gabriele Scuderi closed out the quarter with Scorpions leading 14-9.
The second quarter was very much an end-to-end affair. NASSA were reliant upon Kangethe and Martelly for points as they shared 12 of the 16 points NASSA put on the board. Steward book ended Scorpions scoring efforts, with a bucket from Dwumfour to go with a free throw and a pair at the line from Scuderi not enough to prevent NASSA going into the half time break with a one score advantage, 25-23.
The game remained close over the first five minutes of the third quarter. A score from James Hawes and a free throw from Hunter Wright kept Scorpions in touch 26-30. With both five’s changed, it was Kangethe and Martelly who again troubled the Scorpions defence, pouring in 13 unanswered points. However, NASSA’s propensity to foul saw Martelly foul out during the quarter with his fifth foul sending Albie Lyons crashing to the floor as he gathered an offensive rebound. Lyons required assistance but thankfully his injury was not serious, and he was able to return later in the game. Scorpions were to face an uphill battle in the final quarter as the third period ended with NASSA in the ascendency 43-26.
Scorpions gave it everything they had in the final quarter. Steward got Scorpions going with three points from two visits to the free throw line. Scorpions were to be regular visitors to the charity stripe throughout the quarter as NASSA’s constant fouling landed them in the penalty with more than six minutes to play. Wright scored off a nicely worked inbound ball and with Scuderi (once) and Wright (twice) successful from the line, Scorpion’s energy picked up as they sensed a route back into the game. A put back from Lyons and a further score from Wright reduced the deficit to eight points but that was as close as Scorpions could get. Hawes closed out Scorpions scoring with Hawes also finishing with a team high 15 rebounds.
Scorers for Scorpions: Charlie Steward (12), Hunter Wright (9), Gabriele Scuderi (8), James Hawes (5), Lucas Rotariu (4), Nathaniel Dwumfour (3), Schmaiah Bgwereketai (2) and Albie Lyons (2).
29th January 2022
Baltic Stars U11 104
Southend Scorpions 35
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Scorpions went down to Baltic Stars in their last of four consecutive games on the road. The young Scorpions put in a committed performance and will feel the final score was not reflective of their defensive efforts, achieving a net 10 points improvement from the first meeting between the sides.
It was Scorpions who scored first through Nathaniel Dwumfour, kissing his shot off the glass after a determined drive to the basket. Stars levelled the scores following a couple of trips to the free throw line and began to pull away from Scorpions, establishing a 13-2 lead at the mid-point of the first period. Tom Buscombe and Gabriele Scuderi both split a pair of free throws and despite a further score from Buscombe, Scorpions were unable to make inroads into Stars lead as the hosts closed out the quarter leading 24-6.
Scorpions continued to make Stars work for their points in the second quarter. Scorpions worked hard defensively and on many occasions were able to prevent Stars from driving inside. When denied inside, Stars were happy to kick the ball out and landed several long-range scores, including a couple from behind the arc. It was Dwumfour, enjoying his strongest performance of the season, who got Scorpions on the board again. Hunter Wright then began to find room down the right-hand side, drawing fouls on three occasions driving to the basket and converting 2 from 6 at the line. A put back from Buscombe kept the scoreboard ticking for Scorpions but it was Stars who went to the locker room with a 55-13 lead.
Scorpions had their best period of the game at the start of the third quarter. Working hard defensively, Scorpions initially restricted Stars to just 6 points, with Scorpions matching their hosts through a basket from debutant Leo Clarke and further scores from Scuderi and Buscombe. Unfortunately, Scorpions were unable to sustain their efforts (which was not surprising as overnight illness had left Scorpions three short of a full game day roster) and they were unable to prevent Stars running away with the game. However, good work under the basket from Clarke and a further score from Buscombe ensured Scorpions reached double figures for the quarter. Stars took an 81-23 lead into the final period.
An excellent combination between Wright and Dwumfour got Scorpions off to a good start in the fourth quarter with the former scoring. Dwumfour then followed up with a score of his own and scored again shortly afterwards following another determined drive. Buscombe added a layup to complete his second double double in five games, finishing with 11 points and 14 rebounds. James Hawes scored Scorpions final points, getting himself on the score sheet from close range but Stars fine shooting form continued to give them victory in all four quarters and the game.
Scorers for Scorpions: Tom Buscombe (11), Nathaniel Dwumfour (8), Gabriele Scuderi (6), Leo Clark (4), Hunter Wright (4) and James Hawes (2).
Saturday 21st January
Brentwood Fire u11 - 39
Southend Scorpions - 58
Scorpions snapped their three-game losing streak, putting in a solid all round team performance in
which they recorded both their highest score of the season and biggest winning margin.
Scorpions edged out a close game when the two sides met earlier in the season and the early
exchanges suggested that this game might be equally close. James Hawes went to work inside to
score Scorpions first four points; however, Scorpions were unable to break free of their hosts,
holding a one score lead after the first five minutes. Two scores from Gabriele Scuderi and a bucket
each from Theo Copsey and Albie Lyons doubled Scorpion’s advantage as they led 14-10 at the end
of the first quarter.
Scorpions eased away from their hosts in the second quarter. The impressive Albie Lyons continued
to dominate at both ends of the court, pulling down a game high 14 rebounds (being only one less
than Fire’s combined total) and added a further score and three steals in an MVP performance.
Lyons was joined in the scorebook by seven other Scorpions as Hawes, Nathaniel Dwumfour, Charlie
Steward, Scuderi, Schmaiah Bgwereketai, Lucas Rotariu and Tom Buscombe all chipped in to give
Scorpions a 32-17 lead at the half.
Scorpions took the game away from Fire in the third quarter. Looking after the ball better than they
had done in previous weeks, Scorpions passing and movement both with and without the ball
troubled the Fire defence time after time. Scores from Scuderi, Bgwereketai and Otis Luton
stretched Scorpion’s lead with Scuderi scoring twice more before the five’s changed at the mid-point
of the quarter. Buscombe then went coast to coast for a score following which more good work
around the basket from Hawes saw him add a further six points, shooting an impressive 75% from
the field. Scorpions defence restricted Fire to just three points, giving Scorpions a healthy 50-20 lead
going into the final period.
With the game effectively won, the Scorpions coaches were able to ensure all players got good
minutes on court and it also gave them the opportunity to change style and try a few new plays.
Things did not always go to plan for Scorpions, and to their credit Fire kept going. Having got
Scorpions in foul trouble, Fire began to chip away at the deficit. However, further scores from Lyons,
Cameron Harris and Steward ensured Scorpions maintained a comfortable lead to the final buzzer.
Scorers for Scorpions: Gabriele Scuderi (13), James Hawes (12), Schmaiah Bgwereketai (6), Tom
Buscombe (6), Albie Lyons (6), Charlie Steward (5), Theo Copsey (2), Nathaniel Dwumfour (2),
Cameron Harris (2), Otis Luton (2) and Lucas Rotariu (2).
Sunday 16th January
Baltic Stars U12 95
Southend Scorpions 8
Scorpions put in a spirited performance against the champions elect, who retained their 100%
record that they are likely to retain for the entire season.
Scorpions started the game with high intensity and matched their hosts physical style through the
opening exchanges, restricting Stars to just three points in the first three minutes of play. However,
for all their efforts in matching Stars work rate, it was the hosts superior ability that enable them to
pull away from Scorpions. Scorpions struggled offensively to gain any traction and were forced into
several turnovers as Stars denied them time and space to move the ball. Scorpions only return from
the quarter was a free throw from Gabriele Scuderi as the hosts finished with a 25-1 lead.
Scorpions found the going just as tough in the second quarter. Stars point guard, Green, gave
Scorpions defence a torrid time with his pace, footwork and his ability to drive to the basket or kick
the ball out to his teammates when Scorpions defence managed to halt his progress. Scorpions
failed to trouble the scoreboard in the second quarter with Stars having established a comfortable
59-1 lead.
To their credit and despite the scoreline, Scorpions kept their heads up and continued to try their
best to create openings. Scorpions scored again through Hunter Wright who split a pair at the free
throw line having been clattered driving to the basket. Charlie Steward then scored Scorpions first
bucket from the field, pivoting and swishing from mid-range. Stars physical approach was, however,
beginning to come at a cost as they lost two to self-inflicted injuries with both having to be helped
off the court. The third quarter ended with Stars leading 79-4.
Scorpions kept going in the fourth quarter, scoring through Schmaiah Bgwereketai who netted from
close range following a drive and some smart footwork. Tom Buscombe rounded off the scoring for
Scorpions with an excellent solo effort. Picking up the ball mid-way inside Scorpion’s half, Buscombe
weaved his way through the Stars defence finishing his run with a controlled layup. Whilst it was
Stars who took the win, the Scorpions coaching staff can take some positives from the game
knowing that if the boys can replicate the intensity they displayed, a return to winning ways is just
around the corner.
Scorers for Scorpions: Schmaiah Bgwereketai (2), Tom Buscombe (2), Charlie Steward (2), Gabriele
Scuderi (1) and Hunter Wright (1).
Barking RDF 65 Southend Scorpions 47
A below par Scorpions suffered defeat against a physical Barking RDF side in their first game of the new year.
It was the home side who scored the first five points of the game before Hunter Wright split a pair from the free throw line to give Scorpions their first score. Two baskets from Tom Buscombe and a free throw from Nathaniel Dwumfour helped keep Scorpions in touch 6-11 at the mid-point of the first quarter. With both teams required to rotate all five players for the remainder of the quarter, Scorpions managed to reduce the deficit by a point by the end of the quarter with James Hawes and Gabriele Scuderi both netting twice to leave Scorpions trailing 18-14.
Barking enjoyed the better of the second quarter with the speed and ball handling skills of Kamunya and the height and physicality of Baker beginning to trouble the Scorpions defence. Despite a plethora of turnovers, six points from Charlie Steward, three points from Wright and further scores from Dwumfour and Buscombe ensured that Scorpions remained in the game, but behind with the half time score 36-27 to the hosts.
Barking took control in the third quarter as Scorpions allowed the hosts too much time and space to make several uncontested shots. Scorpions again struggled to contain Kamunya, who scored 14 points in the first five minutes of the quarter before having to sit down as again, both fives were rotated. A pair of layups from Hawes and five points from Buscombe were the only rewards for Scorpions offensive efforts as the hosts took a commanding 59-36 lead into the final quarter.
To their credit the young Scorpions kept their heads up and fought back to take the final period. Hawes and Otis Luton both converted layups following which a strong drive from Scuderi, and a mid-range shot from Steward kept the scoreboard moving. Barking replied with a couple of baskets of their own, after which Wright concluded the scoring for Scorpions with a further three points.
Tom Buscombe finished with an 11 point and a massive 17 rebounds double double; however, it was Barking’s greater shooting accuracy (42% to Scorpions 30%) and their taking greater care of the ball (25 turnovers to Scorpions 42) that are the stats that perhaps show where this game was won and lost.
Scorers for Scorpions: Tom Buscombe (11), James Hawes (10), Charlie Steward (8), Hunter Wright (7) Gabriele Scuderi (6), Nathaniel Dwumfour (3) and Otis Luton (2).
Southend Scorpions 30 Brentwood Fire 80
Scorpions four game winning streak ended at the hands of Brentwood Fire who ran out comfortable winners in this final league game of 2021. The defeat leaves Scorpions with a 4-4 record, at the mid-point of the campaign.
Scorpions struggled from the tip and never looked like matching the form showed in their impressive win over Brentwood Leopards the previous week. With Fire having already established a lead, it was James Hawes who put Scorpions first point on the board, making one of two at the free throw line having been fouled driving to the basket. That was to be the only point Scorpions would register in the first five minutes of play as they found themselves trailing by 16 as the starting five were changed. Scorpions were more competitive after the changes; however, scores from Charlie Steward and five points from debutant Tom Buscombe were only able to reduce the deficit by a point leaving Scorpions down 8-23 at the end of the quarter.
The second quarter saw Scorpions match up better against Fire, whose speed of movement with and without the ball caused Scorpion’s problems all game. Scores from Otis Luton and Hawes were followed by two determined lay up drives from Schmaiah Bgwereketai, the first scoring and the second drawing a foul. Bgwereketai missed with his first free throw and saw his second wiped out for stepping over the line. Scorpions scored the last four points of the quarter, through a fine mid-range basket from Buscombe and a layup from Hawes; however, Scorpion’s efforts were not enough to prevent Fire extending their lead with Scorpions trailing 20-41 at the break.
Fire dominated the second half of the game outscoring Scorpions 39-10. In the third quarter it was the impressive Buscombe who added to his tally with three further scores following which Nathaniel Dwumfour netted with two close range baskets. Defensively, Scorpions continued to struggle with the pace and movement of Fire who enjoyed their highest scoring quarter of the game, extending their lead to 30-68.
Scorpions were unable to add to their score in the final quarter and, with the game won, despite dropping their intensity, Fire added a further 12 points to wrap up a comfortable win. Buscombe shot an impressive 50% from the field, with Dwumfour shooting 40%. However, Scorpions offensive struggles were highlighted in that they put up 31 fewer shots than they had managed in the previous weeks win.
Scorers for Scorpions: Tom Buscombe (15), James Hawes (5), Nathaniel Dwumfour (4), Schmaiah Bgwereketai (2), Otis Luton (2) and Charlie Steward (2).
Brentwood Leopards 48 Southend Scorpions 56
In a game where both sides were missing players, it was an eight-man Scorpions squad who
recorded their fourth consecutive win (and remain unbeaten on the road). It was an impressive win
against a tough Leopards side and was Scorpions best performance of the season so far.
Gabriele Scuderi got Scorpions on the board with the first points of the game, giving Scorpions a lead
that they would never lose. Charlie Steward doubled the lead before Leopards hit back through
Adebiyi, who would go on to lead all scorers with an impressive 30-point haul. Scorpions went on to
dominate the first five minutes of the game with five Scorpions players getting on the scoreboard.
During this period Scorpions were also perfect at the free throw line, Hunter Wright ‘swishing’ a pair
before James Hawes completed an ‘and one’ following a strong drive. However, Scorpions were
unable to sustain their good form at the charity stripe, scoring only 3 more times from their next 23
attempts. It was Leopards and Adebiyi who dominated the second half of the first quarter,
outscoring Scorpions 10-4 to close out the quarter with Scorpions leading 19-14.
The second quarter was the lowest scoring quarter of the game. Defensively, Scorpions continued
to work hard and were able to prevent Leopards from closing the gap. At the other end Scorpions
retained a good balance to their attack with buckets from Steward, Scuderi, Otis Luton and Hawes
taking them to the half leading 31-21.
Scorpions scored off their first play of the third quarter through Wright who collected the inbound
and raced away to score a layup. It was a play he was to repeat on Scorpions next possession. Lucas
Rotariu then made it six unanswered points with Leopards struggling to keep up with Scorpions
quick ball movement. Thereafter, for the remainder of the quarter there was little between the
sides with the hosts outscoring Scorpions 11-10 but leaving Scorpions with a healthy 15-point lead
going into the final period.
With both Wright and Hawes on four fouls, Scorpions sat Hawes down at the start of the fourth
quarter. Scores from Steward and Scuderi stretched Scorpion’s lead to 19 which stoked Leopards
into their best period of the game and a 12-0 run to bring them within seven of Scorpions. Wright
fouled out following which Scorpions put big man Hawes back on court. Scores from Scuderi and an
excellent fake and drive layup from Luton pushed the lead back out to 11 and put paid to Leopards
hopes of a comeback win.
Scorers for Scorpions: Gabriele Scuderi (17), Charlie Steward (13), James Hawes (9), Otis Luton (6),
Hunter Wright (6), Schmaiah Bgwereketai (3) and Lucas Rotariu (2).
Southend Scorpions 50 Braintree Blue Devils 38
Scorpions made it three wins in three games with a win against Braintree at Garon’s.
The opening quarter was a surprisingly flat affair with both sides struggling at the basket. Charlie
Steward eventually broke the deadlock with a driving run and layup. Braintree hit back with a
couple of baskets of their own to take what would prove to be their only lead of the game. A layup
from Hunter Wright closed out the scoring from Scorpions to give them a one score lead (8-6) at the
end of the quarter.
The second quarter saw Scorpions play their best basketball of the game. Braintree struggled to
contain driving runs from James Hawes and Charlie Steward who between them scored 14 of the 18
points Scorpions put on the board. However, Scorpions were guilty of trying to force the play too
often and turned the ball over on many occasions through mis-placed passes. At the other end, the
Scorpions coaching staff will have been pleased to see some defensive formations and drills
transferred from practise to game day. Scorpions took a 26-14 lead into the locker room at half
time.
Scorpions continued to struggle to retain good ball possession in the third quarter, with instructions
to ‘look after the ball’ coming frequently from the bench. Several Scorpions also began to have
trouble with their footwork as Scorpions turned the ball over through travelling infringements on
numerous occasions. Despite their errors, Scorpions were able to extend their lead with Gabriele
Scuderi scoring the first 9 of the 11 points Scorpions managed in the quarter, including a quite
brilliant coast to coast bucket that had the crowd on their feet. Scorpions took a 37-19 lead into the
final quarter.
It was Braintree who had the better of the final period. The visitor’s offensive tactic of throwing long
balls down the court, which had so far brought them little success, began to pay off. Scorpions were
also guilty of not closing the Braintree shooters and they profited from beyond the arc on two
occasions as a result. The final period saw five Scorpions players register scores with Steward,
Scuderi, Nathaniel Dwumfour and Cameron Harris all scoring before Hunter Wright concluded
matters, taking Scorpions to a half century from the free throw line.
Scorers for Scorpions: Gabriele Scuderi (15), James Hawes (12), Charlie Steward (12), Hunter Wright
(5), Nathaniel Dwumfour (4) and Cameron Harris (2).
Southend Scorpions - 34
Brentwood Fire under 11 - 30
Scorpions recorded back-to-back wins as they edged out Brentwood Fire in a frenetic game at
Garon’s
For the first time this season, Scorpions got on the scoreboard first through an Albie Lyons put back
following early pressure on the Fire basket. Further scores from Gabriele Scuderi and Schmaiah
Bgwereketai, plus a pair at the free throw line from James Hawes helped Scorpions close out a low
scoring first quarter with an 8-1 lead.
It was Fire who had the upper hand in the second quarter, content to work the ball around looking
for opportunities to drive in at the Scorpions basket. At the other end Scorpions found good
possession hard to come by and were guilty of turning the ball over on several occasions as they
tried to force their way up the court. Despite their efforts, Fire were unable to get on level terms as
a combination of baskets from Scuderi, Hawes and Steward and some dogged defence ensured
Scorpions held a slender 16-14 lead at the half.
The high tempo continued throughout the third quarter and there was nothing between the sides
with Fire matching Scorpions basket for basket to share 16 points, leaving Scorpions with a one score
lead going into the final period.
Scorpions struggled to get going in the fourth quarter as Fire opened strongly with 8 points. In reply,
Scorpions only score was a free throw from Charlie Steward as Fire pulled away to lead 25-30.
Scorpions took a couple of time outs in quick succession, and the instructions from the Scorpions
coaches were repaid as a free throw from Steward and a score from Scuderi brought Scorpions to
within two. Hunter Wright got Scorpions back on level terms with a fast break lay-up and shortly
after Scorpions regained the lead, with James Hawes banking in a long two. With the clock ticking
down, Hawes scored from another fast break layup following which the Scorpions defence held firm
in the final seconds to claim their second victory of the season.
Scorers for Scorpions: James Hawes (10), Gabriele Scuderi (10), Charlie Steward (6), Hunter Wright
(4), Schmaiah Bgwereketai (2) and Albie Lyons (2).
Southend Scorpions - 34
Brentwood Fire under 11 - 30
Scorpions recorded back-to-back wins as they edged out Brentwood Fire in a frenetic game at
Garon’s
For the first time this season, Scorpions got on the scoreboard first through an Albie Lyons put back
following early pressure on the Fire basket. Further scores from Gabriele Scuderi and Schmaiah
Bgwereketai, plus a pair at the free throw line from James Hawes helped Scorpions close out a low
scoring first quarter with an 8-1 lead.
It was Fire who had the upper hand in the second quarter, content to work the ball around looking
for opportunities to drive in at the Scorpions basket. At the other end Scorpions found good
possession hard to come by and were guilty of turning the ball over on several occasions as they
tried to force their way up the court. Despite their efforts, Fire were unable to get on level terms as
a combination of baskets from Scuderi, Hawes and Steward and some dogged defence ensured
Scorpions held a slender 16-14 lead at the half.
The high tempo continued throughout the third quarter and there was nothing between the sides
with Fire matching Scorpions basket for basket to share 16 points, leaving Scorpions with a one score
lead going into the final period.
Scorpions struggled to get going in the fourth quarter as Fire opened strongly with 8 points. In reply,
Scorpions only score was a free throw from Charlie Steward as Fire pulled away to lead 25-30.
Scorpions took a couple of time outs in quick succession, and the instructions from the Scorpions
coaches were repaid as a free throw from Steward and a score from Scuderi brought Scorpions to
within two. Hunter Wright got Scorpions back on level terms with a fast break lay-up and shortly
after Scorpions regained the lead, with James Hawes banking in a long two. With the clock ticking
down, Hawes scored from another fast break layup following which the Scorpions defence held firm
in the final seconds to claim their second victory of the season.
Scorers for Scorpions: James Hawes (10), Gabriele Scuderi (10), Charlie Steward (6), Hunter Wright
(4), Schmaiah Bgwereketai (2) and Albie Lyons (2).
Saturday 30th October
NASSA 39
Southend Scorpions 48
Scorpions picked up their first win of the season in a competitive and entertaining game at UEL
Sportsdock.
Scorpions produced a good all round team performance, combining some fine offensive passing
movements and drives to the basket with a determined defensive performance, allowing NASSA few
opportunities to attack the Scorpions basket. In particular, the energy of Albie Lyons and the hustling
of Nathaniel Dwumfour set the tone for the Scorpions defence.
It was the home side who opened the scoring with Scorpions hitting back through Gabriele Scuderi,
followed by a driving layup from Charlie Steward. Another strong driving layup from Theo Copsey
closed out the quarter with Scorpions leading 8-2.
The opening exchanges of the second quarter were even with NASSA keeping pace with buckets
from Steward and James Hawes. NASSA edged ahead 15-14, but a drive from Otis Luton and a sharp
cut from Theo Copsey ensured Scorpions kept their noses in front 18-17 at the half.
Scorpions got off to a fast start in the third quarter with scores from Scuderi and an ‘and one’ from
Hunter Wright extending Scorpions lead to eight points. Wright then put Hawes through for a score
and with Hawes returning the favour Scorpions had extended their lead to ten points by the mid-
point of the quarter. NASSA were determined not to let Scorpions have it all their own way and
finished the quarter strongly with six unanswered points, cutting Scorpions lead to 31-27.
NASSA stepped up their intensity in the fourth quarter with Scorpions initially finding points hard to
come by. At the other end, the home team began to find their range and nudged ahead 39-36 with
around three minutes left on the clock. Scorpions redoubled their efforts and a score from Hawes
made it a one-point game. NASSA had a player foul out following which Scuderi regained the lead for
Scorpions, which they would hold to the end. NASSA’s efforts to fight back were dealt a blow when
they lost another player to foul trouble. Scorpions took full advantage with scores from Dwumfour,
Hawes and Scuderi sealing the win and sparking jubilant celebrations at the final buzzer.
Scorers for Scorpions: Gabriele Scuderi (14), James Hawes (13), Hunter Wright (7), Charlie Steward
(6), The Copsey (4), Nathaniel Dwumfour (2) and Otis Luton (2).
Saturday 23rd October
Southend Scorpions 7
Baltic Stars u12 72
​
Scorpions suffered a second consecutive defeat against Baltic Stars having fallen to Stars u11’s the previous week. Scorpions may feel the fixture list has been a little unkind to them, having matched them up against the two Baltic Stars sides (between which it appears it will be a straight fight for the divisional title) within their first three fixtures.
Stars started quickly with Scorpions struggling to contain the visitors pace and movement. Stars soon had a double-digit lead established and defensively were suffocating Scorpions attempts to get their offense going. The first quarter ended with Stars leading 26-0.
Scorpions showed much better offensively in the second quarter. Gabriele Scuderi working hard inside caused Stars defence a few problems as did Hunter Wright making several driving runs in from the right-hand side. Scuderi and Wright’s efforts drew fouls but they both had trouble converting at the free throw line, Scuderi (1 from 4) and Wright (0 from 2). Wright then scored off another drive, but that was as good as it got for Scorpions as they ended the half down 3-38.
Scorpions continued to battle hard in the third quarter and again enjoyed possession around the Stars basket but were only able to add to their tally through Charlie Steward who successfully converted a pair of free throws. Scorpions continued to have difficulty containing Stars offensive play with their point guard (J Green) being particularly impressive. Going into the final period Scorpions trailed 5-54.
Scorpions were forced into a change early in the fourth quarter as Scuderi picked up his fifth foul. The young Scorpions continued to battle hard and managed to add a further score through Otis Luton but at the other end, Stars added a further 18 points to seal the win.
Scorers for Scorpions: Otis Luton (2), Charlie Steward (2), Hunter Wright (2) and Gabriele Scuderi (1).
Saturday 16th October
Southend Scorpions 20
Baltic Stars u11 99
Scorpions were comfortably beaten in this league fixture at Garons, by a well drilled Baltic Stars
team who led from tip to buzzer.
Stars started the game strongly, racing to a 10-0 lead inside the first two minutes which prompted
Scorpions to call an early time out. Having talked things over, Scorpions continued to struggle to
contain their free scoring visitors and found themselves 0-21 at the mid-point of the first quarter
when the ‘all must play’ rule required both teams to change their starting five’s. The remainder of
the quarter was a much tighter affair. Charlie Steward got Scorpions on the board and added a
further two points from the free throw line to leave Scorpions trailing 26-4.
Stars dominated the second quarter, stretching their lead to 50-4. The final play of the half saw
Scorpions get some points on the board. With the buzzer about to go, Charlie Steward was sent to
the line having been fouled as he attempted a three-point shot from way beyond the arc. With both
sets of players back on their benches, it was all eyes on Steward and after missing with his first shot,
he kept his cool scoring his two remaining free throws to end the half with Scorpions 44 points
down.
The third quarter saw Scorpions enjoy their best period of the game. Driving at the Stars basket,
Scorpions profited, firstly from the free throw line with Hunter Wright netting three from four, and
then through baskets from Dexter Seymour, Casey Chihwehwete and Charlie Steward, the latter also
seeing Steward successfully convert the extra point from the free throw line having been fouled
making his layup. Despite their efforts offensively, Scorpions were unable to dent the Stars lead as
they closed out the quarter leading 66 to 16.
Scorpions found it tough going in the final quarter, only being able to add to their tally with a James
Hawes layup and extra point and a free throw from Charlie Steward. At the other end, Scorpions
struggled to get to grips with the speed of Stars movement and rotations as they poured in a further
33 points, to finish with a commanding 79-point win.
Scorers for Scorpions: Charlie Steward (10), James Hawes (3), Hunter Wright (3), Casey
Chihwehwete (2) and Dexter Seymour (2).
Saturday 2nd October
Southend Scorpions 29
RDF Barking 31
​
Despite a thrilling 4th quarter comeback, Scorpions suffered a narrow loss in the seasons opening league fixture at Garons.
It was the visitors who started stronger, jumping to a 7-0 lead before a mid-range shot from Cameron Harris gave Scorpions their first points. This settled the young Scorpions, and they began to grow into the game. Scores from James Hawes and Charlie Steward ensured Scorpions remained in touch 7-11 at the end of the first quarter.
Both sides struggled for points in the second quarter, with Scorpions defence restricting Barking to six points; however, Scorpions having only a basket from Hunter Wright and a free throw from Charlie Steward to show for their efforts going forwards. Scorpions trailed 10-17 at the half.
Scorpions’ confidence continued to grow in the third quarter, but only had points from James Hawes and Charlie Steward as a return for their efforts, with Barking extending their lead to 15-27 going into the last quarter.
The drama came in the final period as Scorpions converted their pressure into points. A dominant performance saw Scorpions open the period with a 6-0 run with back-to-back baskets from James Hawes and a fast break lay up from Hunter Wright. Barking hit back with a score of their own but had no answer at the other end as James Hawes poured in a further six unanswered points. Charlie Steward then levelled the scores with a long two and 30 seconds on the clock. Barking called a time out, following which they regained their composure and went on to score what proved to be the winning basket with 9 seconds remaining. Scorpions then called a time out of their own, but despite working the ball around were unable to get a shot up before the final buzzer.
Scorers for Scorpions: James Hawes (15), Charlie Steward (8), Hunter Wright (4) and Cameron Harris (2).