By Tara Murray
Castlemaine Cannons bolstered their finals hopes by defeating Kyneton Tigers in the Country Basketball League north west men’s competition.
The Tigers were hoping for a win after encouraging signs before the Christmas break.
They were quick out of the blocks and led by eight points at the first break.
The Cannons began to find their groove in the second quarter and turned the deficit into a 65-56 lead at the main break.
They kept the pressure on and increased the margin to 23 points heading into the final quarter.
The Tigers did not give up and won the last quarter, but it wasn’t enough and they lost 109-95.
Louis Bongiovanni lead the team well with 24 points including five three-pointers, while Tom Scott scored a season-high 22 points.
Matt Quinn also had a good game with 18 points before being fouled out.
The loss leaves the Tigers with just two wins heading into the final round of the season.
They face Swan Hill Flyers and Maryborough Blazers in the final round as they hope to finish the season on a high.
The finals-bound Tigers’ women’s side had a bye at the weekend in the north-east competition.
They also face the Flyers and Blazers in double headers with the men’s matches and are playing for two more wins.
Meanwhile, two Tigers players were named in the all-star 5 team for the north-east women’s competition.
Jess Mangan and Molly Greetham were selected following coaches, players and fans votes.
