By Dion Stergiopoulos
After a disappointing loss in Round 1, St George Saints Men’s White were out for redemption in round 2 of the Basketball NSW Men’s Waratah League.
The first game of last weekend’s doubleheader saw the Saints Men’s White face off in an interclub derby against rivals St George Men’s Red.
The return of star player Jayden Tanevski was a welcome sight for the Saints Men’s White after missing their opening round clash with Wagga Wagga due to sickness.
St George Red came out strong from the opening tip, maintaining an early with their strong interior defence in a fast-paced opening half.
Down eight points at half-time the tide quickly switched in St George White’s favour, utilising their quickness and strong perimeter shooting to snatch a late victory.
In the end, the youthfulness of St George White prevailed, pulling off a miracle comeback during the late stages of the 4th quarter to secure the 92-84 victory.
St George White head coach George Aliferis praised his team for never giving up hope in a game that went down to the wire.
“I was very proud of the boys especially during the 4th quarter,” he said. “They came together as one and outplayed the Red team to help us secure a much-needed win.”
Tanevski top scored for St George White with 34 points, 3 rebounds, and 7 assists including a crucial offensive rebound with 16 seconds left which led to his game clinching free-throws.
Yianni Trikilis continued from where he left off last week finishing with 28 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists including two clutch 3-pointers late in the 4th quarter to help secure the victory.
Ross Aliferis was a major defensive presence finishing with 8 rebounds along with 3 points and 2 assists.
With momentum on their side, St George White went into their second game of their double-header against Inner West Bulls brimming with confidence.
The Saints controlled the game from the opening tip to the final buzzer cruising to an 85-70 victory to cap off an amazing weekend. Star players Tanevski and Trikilis led from the front to inspire the team to back-to-back victories.
Tanevski top scored yet again with 37 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists with Trikilis finishing with 28 points, 9 rebounds and 3 assists.
“I was very proud of my team yet again,” Head Coach Mr Aliferis said. “There are a lot of positive signs for the season ahead especially after playing in such a difficult game last night.”
St George Men’s White head to the Central Coast to take on the Central Coast Waves on Saturday, April 5 for their first road trip of the season.
St George Saints Senior Reps results – 29 March 2025
Youth League Mens
- Bankstown Bruins 63-70 St George Saints Red
- Springfield Scorchers 91-89 St George Saints White
Youth League Womens
- St George Saints 50-64 Central Coast Waves
Waratah League Mens
- St George Saints Red 84-92 St George Saints White
St George Senior Reps results – 30 March 2025
Waratah League Mens
- St George Saints White 85-70 Inner West Bulls
