After losing the first encounter to the Cardinals earlier this season, Erks knew exactly what they had to do this time around. With an all-senior starting five, Coach Morvan expected to get out to an early lead. Erks played a lot of pressure defence and it paid off, forcing Cardinals into turning the ball over time after time. Steals however, did not mean points scored. Numerous missed fast-breaks and forced shots meant points would have to be gotten the scrappy way.

The first quarter went quickly and was low scoring, which spelt changes for coach Morvan. After a few substitutions the second quarter seemed like a different game, with a very strong inside/outside game from forward Wes Fortt and outstanding shooting from guard Irfan Hussain (6 three-pointers). Led by inspirational point guard Dela Agbolegbe and offensive and defensive standout Sean Hutchinson, Erks were able to play their game. Cardinals though, were never really far behind. With consecutive baskets at certain times, they showed they were a threat on offence. But with numerous changes to the line up, which saw the introduction of five different junior players, Erks' defence stepped up a notch. The defence needed to be on point, Cardinals were not going to lay down.

Having become Erks' defensive secret weapon of late, junior squad members - Robin & Andrew French, Terry Reeve and Toby Kallar each brought their own intensity onto the court. As a unit they were energetic on defence and have become effective on offence. Crucial shots were made by Terry Reeve and Toby Kallar, with a couple of three pointers from Robin French to add. Cardinals kept up the pace, forcing Erks to pull of something special each time down the court. End to end thrills and spills in the third quarter from Sean Hutchinson, Wes Fortt and Irfan Hussain meant enthusiasm was high on the bench as well as the court.

By the fourth quarter Erks pulled off to an eight point lead, looking to play out the game comfortably. With four minutes remaining Erks leader Dela Agbolegbe slowed things down and made Cardinals work harder, after their point guard received a technical foul and eventually fouled out of the game. Rotations were still made by coach Morvan going into the final minutes of the game. His 'everybody plays' policy meant juniors were in the game as Cardinals put on the pressure, trying to make a late surge. It came really close as Cardinals forced turnovers and Erks made unnecessary fouls, sending them to the free throw line. But, Erks came through this one, holding Cardinals off, 56 - 54.

Erks 1's next game will be against Erks 2 at Sydney Russell School on Thursday 11th March 2004. Tip off @ 8.45pm.

As Erks 2 look to win the Essex Metropolitan league this season, they must first get past a revenge seeking Erks 1 squad!!