VMT MATCH REPORT: Phoenix Put Up a Fight Against Hawks

The Phoenix rightfully looked battle-worn playing their second game inside of three days, while their opponent enjoyed a lengthy seven-day spell.

Mike Kelly’s side were also without a centre, with injury-replacement Tyler Cook himself missing with an eye complaint suffered against the Taipans.

South East Melbourne went blow-for-blow with the home side, nothing splitting the teams at the first break through a shooting frenzy from captain Mitch Creek, Gary Browne and birthday boy Will Cummings.

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But while the team may have thought candles were on offer with a victory on the cards, the Hawks played party poopers and quickly extinguished any hopes of an away victory for just the second time in seven attempts.

The Hawks victors with the Phoenix left to rue a missed opportunity, returning home with a 1-3 record and two losses from as many games on this road trip.

They will be the benefactors of a week’s break, next playing the Tasmania JackJumpers at John Cain Arena next Saturday Night.

BIRTHDAY BOY’S NIGHT OUT

It was his 31st birthday, and import Will Cummings had a night to celebrate. He went ballistic in the first term, 11 points to begin. The rest of the night showed much the same, ending with 28 points (61% FG), seven rebounds, three assists and four steals.

1500 POINTS FOR TE RANGI

The Phoenix young veteran and 300+ NBL game has forged a name for himself as an elite shooter and finisher. That has shown throughout his career and tonight he celebrated passing 1500 career points.

CREEK SLAMS IT DOWN

Over his career, Mitch Creek has proved time and time again he’s the man to light a spark. Tonight was no different. The Phoenix fought back in the third term to regain the lead, thanks largely to Creek’s efforts, highlighted by an incredible dunk that sent the stadium into rapture.

Full-Time Stats

Cummings: 28p/7r/3a/4stls

Creek: 24p/8r/3a

Browne: 22p/4r/1a/2stls

Te Rangi: 12p/1a

Ayre: 10p/2r/2a

Moller: 5p/3r/2blks

Vague: 3p/5r

Kenyon: 2p/6r/2a

Foxwell: 1a

CLICK HERE to secure your tickets to Phoenix's next home game on OCtober 14 against the Tasmania JackJumpers.