VMT MATCH REPORT: Big Bullets Get The Edge Over Phoenix
By
Phoenix Media
2 Nov
1
min read


The Phoenix fell short of an imposing Brisbane Bullets side, going down 108-92 at Nissan Arena.
Foul trouble early cost Mike Kelly’s side dearly, MVP-candidate Alan Williams with a quartet before half-time changing proceedings.
Gorjok Gak suffered a calf injury late in the first, leaving the Phoenix to rely on Craig Moller and Rhys Vague to fill the 211cm void.
On the other end, Aron Baynes returned with aplomb (12p), with Josh Bannon (17p, 13r) and Tyrell Harrison (14p, 8r) imposing themselves in the low-post and proving the difference.
It was a physical start to the game, with the Bullets coming off back-to-back wins and keeping the momentum going at home.
Just before quarter-time a much needed 👌 from Gary!
— South East Melbourne Phoenix (@SEMelbPhoenix) November 2, 2023
📺 Watch on ESPN ➡️ Kayo | Foxtel pic.twitter.com/hIZyVk0LtN
Gary Browne was a man on a mission in the 2nd half, charging them back to within 10 points us. He ended the night on a game-high 25 points, eight rebounds and five assists.
Mitch Creek led from the front with 20 points himself but was in a battle himself against the impressive youngster Josh Bannan.
He was one of the bullets best on the night with a double-double of 17 points and 11 rebounds.
Fans got to see Aron Baynes back in the league after serving his suspension as he went up against Williams.
With the first play being a foul on Williams before the Bullets big got one back for himself.
Creek & Moller from deep! 👌👌
— South East Melbourne Phoenix (@SEMelbPhoenix) November 2, 2023
📺 Watch on ESPN ➡️ Kayo | Foxtel pic.twitter.com/RKvKQ0gz9s
The Phoenix found themselves trailing for the majority of the game, with a slight third quarter comeback shooting 29-24.
But in the end, the Bullets had the edge taking the win by 16 points.
The Phoenix now travel home and hope to bounce back at the Fire Pit on Sunday against the Cairns Taipans.
How good does our Indigenous Jerseys, designed by Katie Bugden look! 🖤💛❤️ pic.twitter.com/i3O0rn9AFr
— South East Melbourne Phoenix (@SEMelbPhoenix) November 2, 2023
Full-Time Stats
Browne: 25p/8r/5a/3stls
Creek: 20p/4r/1a/1stl
Williams: 14p/7r/4a/1stl/1blk
Cummings: 12p/3r/1stl
Te Rangi: 6p/3r/1stl
Moller: 5p/6r/1stl
Ayre: 4p/1r/2a
Vague: 3p/1r/1blk
Foxwell: 2p/1a
Kenyon: 1p/6r
Gak: 1r
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