Game Recap: Sharks v Airs
- Jun 19
- 2 min read
Result: SBS Bank Southland Sharks (84) are defeated by Taranaki Airs (93)
The Taranaki Airs completed a stunning second-half comeback to defeat the Southland Sharks 93-84, snapping Southland's 10-game winning streak. The Sharks got off to a strong start behind the interior presence of Samuel Timmins and the shot-making of Caleb Asberry, helping Southland to a 42-37 lead at halftime.
Southland would eventually build the lead to double digits, but the Airs fought back and took control in the second half on the back of Aaron Cook Jr's all-around performance, including several momentum-shifting defensive plays and transition scores. James Moors also made his presence felt with strong finishes around the rim, while Keylan Boone knocked down crucial perimeter shots as Taranaki outscored the Sharks after the break. The Airs' defensive intensity disrupted Southland's offensive rhythm and proved the difference as they sealed the 93-84 victory.
Leading Players
SBS Bank Southland Sharks : Caleb Asberry (25pts,3reb,3ast,2stl), Keylan Boone (20pts,11reb,2ast,3stl), Samuel Timmins (11pts,16red,4ast,1blk)
Taranaki Airs : Brandon Stroud (21pts,2red,7ast,2stl), Marcel Jones (16pts,10reb,2ast,1stl), Aaron Cook Jr (12pts,2reb,10ast.3stl)
MVP Votes:
Brandon Stroud (Taranaki Airs) - 9
Marcel Jones (Taranaki Airs) - 7
Caleb Asberry (Southland Sharks) - 5
Aaron Cook (Taranaki Airs) - 4
Sam Timmins (Southland Sharks) - 3
Keylan Boone (Southland Sharks) - 2
Rapid League game:
Result: Southland Sharks (27) are defeated by Taranaki Airs (29)
The Southland Sharks fought hard in front of their home crowd but were unable to hold off the Taranaki Airs, who claimed a narrow 29–27 Rapid League victory. After trailing in quater three, the Airs produced a late comeback in the fourth quarter to swing the momentum in their favour. The Sharks continued to battle until the final buzzer, but the Airs held their nerve in the closing stages to complete the comeback and secure the hard-fought 29–27 win.
Leading Players
Southland Sharks :Dane Bertinshaw (15pts), Quake Webster (3pts, 3reb,4ast,2stl)
Taranaki Airs : Nico Hill (12pts, 2reb, 2stl), Zavier Adam (5pts,2red,1ast)
Rapid League MVP Votes:
Nico Hill (Taranaki Airs) - 10
Dane Bertinshaw (Southland Sharks) - 8
Quintin Bailey (Taranaki Airs) - 4
Zavier Adam (Taranaki Airs) - 3
Tautoko Wynyard (Southland Sharks) - 2
Will Leger (Southland Sharks) - 2
Lyric Tuhaka (Taranaki Airs) - 1
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