Tivoli Aim To Cool Down Flames

After bouncing back from Saturday's surprise loss to Runnin Rebels with a win a day later, defending champions Tivoli Gardens will be looking to continue their winning streak in the Flow/National Basketball League (NBL), when they face Portmore Flames in today's feature game at the National Stadium court starting at 7:45 p.m.

In the opening game of a double-header, former winners St Georges Slayers will take on Swift Sons starting at 6 p.m.

Tivoli, who are seeking their third-straight hold on the trophy, had their five-game winning halted on Saturday, when they were beaten by 71-54 by the Rebels.

However, the Edward 'Ted' Marshall-coached Tivoli, whose record now stands at six wins and one defeat, returned to winning ways the following day, recording an easy 76-53 win over Swift Sons.

"We need to play solid defence because Flames is a dangerous team and they have good outside shooters," said Wayne Bartley, manager of Tivoli.

"On the offensive end, we have to make sure that we attack the basket and score off every possession because we need to build on this winning streak going forward," he said.

Bartley also admitted that his team was very devastated with their defeat to Rebels.

"We are not going to underestimate any of these teams in the competition because you all saw what happened on Saturday and so we will be coming with full force to win this game," Bartley said.

Tivoli will rest their hopes in the hands of point guard Omar Barnes, shooting guard Christoph Brown, forward Maurice Blackwood and power forward Anthony Farquharson.

On the other hand, the Flames' record stands at two wins and three defeats. Ian Anderson, coach of the Flames, said his team is very confident that they can win.

"I think that we can beat Tivoli, but we have to ensure that we limit our turnovers and keep them from getting offensive rebounds and second chance points," said Anderson.

"We have been having an up and down season so far, but we are hoping that we can start turning things around tomorrow (today) with a victory against the defending champions," said Anderson.

- Robert Bailey