In a gripping NBL encounter at John Cain Arena, the Melbourne United withstood a valiant fourth-quarter fightback from the Sydney Kings to prevail 101-98. The matchup between the league’s top two teams lived up to its billing, delivering high-octane action from start to finish.
Goulding Shines as United Build Early Buffer
Melbourne sharpshooter Chris Goulding was the catalyst for the home side, draining 6 of 10 attempts from beyond the arc on his way to a game-high 28 points. The 36-year-old marksman continued his scorching form from before the FIBA break, moving into equal fifth on the NBL’s all-time three-pointers made list with 1,242 triples.
United’s offense was firing on all cylinders in the first half, piling on 65 points against the Kings’ usually stingy defense to lead by 16 at the main break. Shea Ili (18 points) and Rob Loe (15 points) provided valuable support, while Jack White recorded a double-double of 13 points and 12 rebounds in his return from injury.
Kings Bench Sparks Second-Half Surge
However, Sydney refused to go down without a fight. Led by impressive Next Star Alex Toohey, who poured in 16 points off the bench, the Kings reserves launched a spirited second-half comeback to erase the double-digit deficit.
Import Cam Oliver was also influential with 21 points, 6 rebounds and 6 steals, despite drawing the ire of the home crowd after a heavy foul on Loe early in the game. Point guard Jaylen Adams added 10 points, including two clutch triples in the final two minutes to twice level the scores.
United Hold Nerve in Tense Finish
With the game in the balance and scores tied at 98-98, it was the home side who held their nerve when it mattered most. An untimely 8-second violation from Adams handed United a vital possession, and Ili made one of his two free throws after being fouled to edge his team back in front.
Kings captain Shaun Bruce then missed a potential go-ahead three, before Ian Clark iced the game at the charity stripe for United. A desperation heave from Izaya Le’afa on Sydney’s final possession fell short, allowing Melbourne to hang on for a hard-earned victory.
We knew they would keep coming at us, they’re too good a team to just fold. I’m proud of the boys for making enough plays down the stretch to get it done.
– Melbourne United coach Dean Vickerman
The win saw United (11-4) maintain top spot on the NBL ladder at the halfway point of the season, while the Kings (8-7) remain firmly in the playoff hunt despite the narrow defeat. Sydney coach Brian Goorjian was visibly frustrated with some of the officiating late in the game, earning a technical foul for his animated protests.
Key Takeaways from the Contest
- Chris Goulding continues to shoot the lights out and is on track for one of his best NBL seasons
- Melbourne’s offense looks potent but they will want to shore up their second-half defense
- Sydney’s bench, led by Alex Toohey, could be a wildcard in the playoffs
- Cam Oliver’s physical style is ruffling feathers but undoubtedly effective
- The NBL title race is wide open with several teams capable of making a deep postseason run
Both teams won’t have to wait long for a rematch, with the Kings hosting United at Qudos Bank Arena in Round 12. If this classic encounter is anything to go by, fans are in for another treat when these heavyweights of the NBL collide again.
