Semi-Final defeat signals end of season

B. Braun Sheffield Sharks
B. Braun Sheffield Sharks
May 12, 20191:32 PM

benecos BBL Play-Offs Semi-Final, Second Leg

London City Royals 91-69 DBL Sharks Sheffield (20-12, 48-27, 67-47)

Royals win 154-130 on aggregate

London City Royals are heading to the benecos Basketball Play-Off Finals in their first season after overcoming DBL Sharks Sheffield. Jay Williams’ side backed up their win on the road with a convincing home win to advance to the season finale at The O2 Arena.

Leading scorers – Matthew Bryan-Amaning 27, Ed Lucas 16, Ashley Hamilton 12 (Royals) – Dirk Williams 30, Mackey McKnight 12, Mike Tuck 8 (Sharks)

Turning point – The Sharks led 9-12 to take the overall lead, but the home side went on a 20-0 run across quarters – including nine straight from Bryan-Amaning to open the second – on their way to building a 21-point lead at the half. There was no way back for the Sharks, despite a 30-point haul from Williams.

Key stat – The Royals put up 28 points in the second and shot 54% from inside the arc on the night, whilst keeping their opponents to 40%.

Game hero(es) – Bryan-Amaning scored 16 of his team-high 27 points in the pivotal second period, while Lucas hit four triples in his 16 points and Hamilton made it four consecutive double-doubles with 12 points and 12 rebounds.

Many thanks to all our supporters for your tremendous backing during the season. We’ll see you all at Ponds Forge for the 2019-20 season!