Defence burning Flames

Defence remains a concern for the Rockingham Flames in the wake of two heavy defeats in last weekend’s round of State Basketball League fixtures.

The Flames were beaten by Cockburn Cougars at the Mike Barnett Sports Complex on Friday night, lowering their colours by 65 points.

Their fortunes did not improve the second leg of the weekend’s double-header, going down by 16 points against the Willetton Tigers.

Rockingham were within striking distance of the Cougars at half-time, but were outscored by the tune of 50 points in the second half.

Underlining the Flames’ horror match was the fact four Cockburn players scored over 20 points.

Percell Coles (29 points) played a virtual lone hand for Rockingham in attack, but did receive some help from Trent Gerovich, who netted 18 points.

For all their defensive headaches, the Flames still found their way to the basket easily enough—something they again managed against Willetton on Saturday.

Rockingham led at quarter-time, but were outscored in the second and third quarters before going down 122-106. Coles equalled his effort from the previous night with 29 points, while James Booyer also hit 29 points in his best offensive display of the season.