Having won the first two league games of the season Rossendale Raptors faced local rivals Stockport Falcons in what would be a tightly contested game. Stockport had strengthened significantly over the summer, signing Paul Cantwell from the French professional leagues, Daniel Pilkington from the British Premier League, and Josh Houghton and James Steer who were star players for Division 1 Manchester Magic.
Raptors started the game slowly, and were out paced by the fired up Falcons who were quick out of the gates from the very first whistle. Their up-tempo game caught the Raptors on the back foot and Rossendale were down 45-29 at half time. A big third quarter got the Raptors back into it at 62-62 each. With both teams fighting for the win, the Raptors struggled to keep the momentum and behind some high paced fast breaks Stockport pulled away and Raptors were well beaten 87-72. Steven Gayle once again lad the team with 26 points, Spaniard Aitor Estrada had 19 while Tom Sutton scored 8.
Coach Jim Fry, said “It was a tough loss to swallow. We weren’t at our best which was disappointing. But that said, Stockport played very well and were good value for their win. They were the better team today.”
Raptors next game is at home, Haslingden Sports Centre on Saturday 19th of October at 5pm. Tickets are just £2 for adults and 50p for juniors. Limitless Cheerleaders and Dance like no-ones watching Street Dance team, and of course Mascot Rozzy Raptor will add to the entertainment.
Photo courtesy of Jay Jackson: https://www.icloud.com/photostream/#A3G4TcsmGm9Py3