Tara Murray
Whittlesea Pacers coach Des Radoslovic had a sick feeling in his stomach leading into his side’s knockout semi final against the Altona Gators.
After a poor performance in the first week of the Big V division 1 finals, Radoslovic wasn’t sure what to expect in the semi final.
He was hoping his side would bounce back, but was aware that the first final performance was unlike any performance they’d had in the last two years.
For the Pacers and Radoslovic’s sake it was the first as they smashed the Gators on the way to a 125-85 win.
“There was something about the loss, it was out of character,” he said. “I think we were a little bit complacent because of the successful season we’ve had so far.
“Altona was more threatening because of the rivalry. For us to get back on track and have a bit of venom was really pleasing.”
The Pacers missed their first shot before going on to make their next 14 shots as they led 42-22 at quarter time.
Radoslovic couldn’t have asked for a better start.
“There was non-stop pressure and they were creating so much and momentum was on our side,” he said.
“The physicality and defence was the difference and it was creating offence. I was relieved to get that start as we had a lacklustre one last week.”
Radoslovic said the most pleasing thing was the group was creating good shots and it wasn’t just luck shots falling.
The message at quarter time was simple.
“We said before the game it would take 40 minutes of basketball and that’s just the first 10 minutes,” Radoslovic said. “We said make sure not to let up.
“We’re not going to make another 14 in a row, but we need to keep playing our system.”
The Pacers were able to share the scoring around with seven players, including all five starters, scoring double figures.
Import Meekness Payne led the way with 24 points. He also had eight rebounds, four assists, two steals and three blocks.
Radoslovic said the scoring load showed that their system was working.
“Our motto is give up good shots to get great shots,” he said.
The Pacers will now face Gippsland United in the preliminary final with a grand final spot on the line.
Gippsland beat the Pacers in the first week of finals, 116-109. RMIT Redbacks awaits the winner in the grand final.
The Pacers will make the trip down to Traralgon for the match.
Radoslovic said while they would love to play at home, a road trip isn’t the worst thing.
“It helps build the team bond.”
The Pacers youth league side was knocked out of finals, losing to Westgate Imperials, 75-65.
