Tara Murray
The Altona Gators had to settle for sharing the spoils after the toughest weekend in the Big V men’s division 2 competition.
The Gators, who are trying to cement a top four spot, faced the top two sides, in a season defining weekend for the side.
On Saturday night, they headed down to Pakenham to face second-placed Pakenham Warriors.
The Warriors jumped out of the blocks with a 26-15 first quarter, as they shot from an incredible 80 per cent from the field.
The Gators started to get going in the second quarter and were able to turn the 11 point deficit into a five point lead at half time.
That margin was extended to 10 points at the last break, with the Gators in the box seat to claim the win.
The Warriors kept pushing and despite winning the last quarter, the Gators were able to hold on, winning 84-81.
Tyson Burton had a massive game with 29 points and 10 rebounds to lead the way for the Gators, as several other players hit double figures.
The Gators were back in action at home on Sunday, hosting ladder leaders Gippsland United.
United was the better team early and led by three points at quarter time.
The margin was extended to 13 points at the main break.
The Gators were able to reduce the margin slightly in the third quarter, trailing by 10 points at the last break.
Both teams upped the scoring in the last quarter, with both teams shooting at least 50 per cent from the field.
The Gators would fall just short, losing 84-77. The Gators would shoot at 55 per cent from the field for the game, which played a big role in their win.
Nick Formosa top scored with 17 points coming off the bench for the Gators, while three other players hit double figures.
The Gators sit in fourth spot with two rounds remaining. This week they face the bottom side, the Surf Coast.
The Gators women’s side had a bye on the weekend.
This week they travel to Traralgon to take on Gippsland United. The Gators sit second on the table.
In the youth league competition, the Gators’ division 1 men’s side finished the regular season in second spot.
On Saturday, they beat the Hume City Broncos, 119-101.
The youth league championship women’s side finished the regular season with an 68-59 win against the Sandringham Sabres.
The Gators finished third in their pool.
