Pirates are the real stars of the basketball court

Bognor Pirates II made the long journey to Eastbourne for a rearranged Sussex League fixture which got 2011 off to a winning start as they beat the Stars 77-53.

Pirates were slow to start and made a couple of unforced errors but began to move the ball on offence and get themselves into the game.

It was obvious this would not be an easy game as both teams traded baskets, but Bognor did just enough to get a slight lead at the end of the first quarter, which finishe 14-10 to Stars.

The second quarter saw better offence from both teams with the Stars shooting well and the Pirates working hard to get some points from inside the lane to keep the scores close.

Bognor just edged the quarter by one point and at half-time it was 34-29.

The third quarter brought a slow start from the Pirates as they struggled on offence and defended poorly, allowing the Stars to score three uncontested three-pointers.

After a quick time-out, Bognor woke up and began to get their rhythm back, playing much better defence and converting down the offensive end. The third quarter ended 47-47.

Pirates knew they would have to step it up in the fourth quarter - and they did.

The Pirates played great defence, forcing tough shots and turnovers from the Stars. Pirates broke quickly and convert this to points.

Bognor went back to basics on offence, passing the ball around and making the Stars work hard until they saw an opening, which Pirates took advantage of.

PIRATES: D Turner 31, J Mclaren 14, L Barnes 12, G Pridie 8, M Wakeling 8, S Hardyman 3, D Chester 1, J Parker.