Derbyshire Arrows snatch amazing last-gasp win on the buzzer

Having edged out Doncaster Danum Eagles in their opening game of the Second Division season, Jonny Kelley’s ‘cardiac kids’ proved again that they are never beaten until they are nailed to the floor.

They trailed 77-75 with only seconds remaining. But in an amazing finale, Ipswich captain Dave Sadler missed two free shots that would have put the match beyond Arrows, and when Broodie rose to secure the rebound from the second, he took off down court and launched a shot from just over the halfway-line that struck the backboard and dropped precisely into the net as the buzzer sounded.

He was immediately engulfed by delighted teammates, dancing in joyful celebration, as the Ipswich team and their previously vociferous supporters were left to watch in stunned silence.

It was just reward for a stirring fightback by Arrows after an exhausting journey to Ipswich, who swept forward in the opening quarter and built a lead of 21-14 that was extended to 33-18 in the second quarter.

However, the visitors responded with their best spell of the game as Joseph Baugh, Denis Scott and Aaron Moseley all hit three-pointers, and Napthali Nembhard made an impact at both ends. By the half-time break, the deficit had been reduced to just one point at 40-39.

Ipswich came out strongly again to extend their lead to 56-52, but Baugh and Andreas Lycoudis responded with more three-pointers and Matt Wilson produced a fantastic effort to slow down the home side’s giants.

The fourth quarter was tight throughout and with Broodie’s aggression proving influential, Arrows edged ahead for the first time at one point, 63-62. With just two minutes left, it was 70-all before another three-pointer from Baugh gave the visitors a narrow advantage again.

Once more, Ipswich regained their lead until that breathtaking climax, which left Arrows on top. Baugh ended with 21 points, followed by Scott with 15, Wilson with ten, and Lycoudis and Broodie with nine each.

ARROWS were involved in another exciting match when just falling short of a Men’s National Cup, Third Round giantkilling against Derby Trailblazers.

They had heroes everywhere on the court against a side who not only play a division higher but sit top of it, and they played some sublime basketball before going down on their swords, 94-85.

They trailed by just two points, 42-40, at the interval. They were level, 67-67, in the third quarter. And the sides were still locked together with just three minutes left. Baugh was top scorer with 22 points, followed by Moseley with 20 and Scott with 17.

It’s back to league action this Saturday (6.30 pm) when Arrows take on Kent Crusaders at home.