VMT MATCH REPORT: Phoenix Outclassed by the Hawks in Gippsland

Without captain Mitch Creek due to a knee injury sustained in Thursday’s Throwdown, the Phoenix welcomed new import Abdel Nader, who had only been in the country for over 48 hours. 

The Hawks came out of the blocks from tip-off, with the Phoenix coming back and leading into the first break 27-22. 

But the Hawks continued to show their strength under interim coach Justin Tatum, shooting 54% for the game. 

Alan Williams continues to be in season-best form after the late start to the season, collecting his seventh double-double with 17 points and 12 rebounds.

Ben Ayre was a shining light for the Phoenix with 15 points, while newcomer Abdel Nader had a solid contribution coming off the bench with nine points and four rebounds. 

For the Hawks, their captain, Tyler Harvey, was dominating with a game-high 25 points, making it tough to guard him for the game. 

The Phoenix now start their block of away games over Christmas, starting with the Taipans next Friday in Cairns.

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Full-Time Stats

Williams: 17p/12r/2a/1blk
Ayre: 15p/1r/2a/1stl
Te Rangi: 11p/3r/2a
Nader: 9p/4r
Browne: 6p/6r/6a/1stl/1blk
Foxwell: 6p/1r/1a
Kenyon: 4p/8r/3a
Rosendale: 3p/1r
Gak: 1p/2r/1a
Vague: 2r
Rissetto: 1r
Stattmann: 1r
Rapp: 1a

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