By Jonty Ralphsmith
The Pakenham Warriors recorded a comfortable victory over the Surf Coast on Sunday afternoon in front of home fans…celebrating captain Jake Spruhan’s 300th game in style.
The skipper was on the court for over 30 minutes, comfortably the most of all Pakenham players, and had his usual impact with 10 rebounds and four assists.
A strong start gave Pakenham an 18 point lead at quarter-time, setting the platform for a 51-point victory.
Elias Kafrouni scored 20 points and Joe Davis scored 16 points to go with 12 rebounds in an outstanding double-double performance in the 92-41 victory.
Alistair Parker and Josh Dow were others to shine for the Warriors, scoring 15 and 14 points respectively.
Pakenham sit second on the ladder and host Whittlesea at home on Saturday 7 May.
A 24-point halftime lead gave the youth league men team the impetus for a comfortable 74-63 victory over Bellarine.
The warriors shared the load beautifully with Jarred Small (15 points) and Josh Norton (11 points) the best of an impressive nine point scorers.
A stoic last quarter from Bellarine tightened the final margin to 11 points, but the Warriors remain undefeated after seven games and have Whittlesea next up.
The youth league women’s team had a disappointing weekend, going down in a double-header weekend against Eltham (84-69) and McKinnon (75-70).
Tylah Scorah top scored with 18 points, and Alahna Arnason (16 points, 12 rebounds) produced a double-double against Eltham, before Louise Karajic Powell hit 14 points against McKinnon.
Arnason (12 points, 17 rebounds) was once again unstoppable on the boards, while Rhi Gallagher (13 points) and Ebony Sans (12 rebounds) were also valuable contributors.
The Warriors have Bulleen on the road next up.
The championship women had a bye and will be back in action at home against the undefeated Bulleen on Saturday night.
