Amber Valley Spartans open season with win over Rolls Royce Raptor

Although it wasn’t what you would call a great performance, the Amber Valley Spartans were able to set their season off with a comfortable win.

Speaking after the win player coach Mark Woodhouse said: “It wasn’t a pretty win, particularly from our performance in the first half, but I’m happy to be off the mark with this cub.

“We will only get stronger as we learn to play together as we’re still a new team.

“We still have key players missing from other commitments at the moment, however, I continue to be excited for what the future of this club holds.” It was clear The Spartans were a little jittery in the early stages as the first quarter saw both teams exchanging baskets with very little to separate them. It appeared they were unable to take control of the game with some close range misses and a host of unforced errors and turnovers.

The Raptors were able to capitalise from this and opened a slender lead before the half-time break.

After some harsh words from coach Woodhouse and some defensive tactical adjustments, the Spartans began playing with more relentless intensity.

Forcing the Raptors to shoot from long range to which they had little success.

Kyle Henderson, on the contrary, was able to give the Spartans a lift as he knocked down three successive three point shots to which were un-answered by the home team who were beginning to show signs of fatigue under the pace of the game.

The Spartans continued with great defence into the final quarter forcing the Raptors to settle for long range shots only connecting with but a few.

At the other end of the floor the Spartans began to find the mark from close to the basket with fast break lay ups from guards Kieran Simcox and Adam McGory. Strong post moves from Mark Simpson and Rob Marriot sealed the victory as the away team came away comfortable winners.

The Spartans D1 team next take on Chilwell Comets on Tuesday 6th October at Bilborough College followed by Paviors at home October 9th.

While Spartans II get their D1 campaign started against the Redhill Rockets away as Mapperly Sports Village on Sunday 4th October.