Shepparton Gators coach Josh Waight has praised his side’s ability to lock in on the defensive side of its game following Saturday night’s 19-point win over Bulleen.
After being challenged in the second quarter, the Gators were able to dig deep in front of a home crowd at Shepparton Sports Stadium to clinch six games on the trot.
The 93 to 74 triumph keeps the Gators in second spot on the Big V division one ladder after 12 rounds.
The Gators’ 12th win of the campaign looked in doubt when Bulleen went on a 13-3 run halfway through the second term.
Bulleen led 45 to 43 at the main break, but a decisive 27 to nine third term by the hosts put the result beyond doubt.
“The boys started really well, but they had a bit of a dip in the second quarter and Bulleen was able to get on a roll and get on top of us,” Waight said.
“But after half-time the boys really locked in on the defensive end and made life tough for Bulleen’s shooters. The boys forced them into tough shots and didn’t allow them to get second or third looks.
“I was really proud of the way they were able to go up another level.”
Nick Dodd was influential off the bench with 15 points at 50 per cent from the floor, while young gun Jordan Michel (14 points, six rebounds, four assists) rose to the occasion in the absence of Matt Bartlett.
Shepparton’s star imports Garrett Jefferson (19 points) and Dylan Wilkie (17) led the way on the offensive end and shot 53 per cent and 63 per cent from the field, respectively.
The Gators’ bench was able to step up when called upon and contributed 33 points.
Waight praised the efforts of Dodd and Michel.
“I thought Nick was fantastic. He really has been hitting his straps in recent weeks,” the Gators’ head coach said.
“He took it to Bulleen’s import, giving up size, but he shut him down and he also shot the ball really well too.
“And Jordy stepped up to fill the role of point guard for Matt (Bartlett) who missed through injury.
“It was another strong match for Jordy and we know we can rely on him to step up.”
The Gators’ sixth consecutive win has drummed up plenty of excitement throughout the supporter base.
Waight applauded his side’s efforts to be locked in second position on the table, but the mentor understands there’s still plenty of hard work ahead.
“The boys have been fantastic. They just keep getting better each week,” he said.
“Whenever they have been challenged they just seem to find another gear and go to another level.
“We know we have got a massive stretch coming up and we know we need to keep improving.”