Teesside Lions had cause for double celebration at the weekend as they beat Liverpool to progress into the quarter final of the playoffs and lifted the league trophy in a memorable scene with their fans at Eston Arena.

Club owner James Thomson, 43 said it was important to show how valued the fans are and recognise the role they have played in helping the club achieve success this season.

“We wanted to capture a memory that involved the fans. It was important for me to have them in that celebration photo which will now immortalise a magical undefeated season.” Said James.

The club will now play UEL London Lions at Eston Arena on Easter Sunday in what will be another high level game of basketball to entertain the Teesside fans.

Just more than 850 spectators witnessed Lions dismantle Liverpool, including 55 who travelled from Merseyside. The travelling contingent were vociferous in their support despite being outnumber more than 15 to 1. The Teesside fans who were also in good voice contributed to an incredible atmosphere.

The game began well for Teesside as Matt Hughes hit a 3-pointer followed shortly after by a smooth finish from Aaren Smith off the dribble. Liverpool’s James Ward cut frustrated figure throughout the game and was involved in many confrontations which may have stemmed from being on the wrong end of a huge block by Lions 7 foot centre Theo Turner in the second minute. The home defence was watertight for the first three minutes prior to Philip Deveney hitting a close range jumper.

Shortly after Liverpool’s access to the basket was again denied with yet another huge rejection from Turner, this time sending John Malloy’s baseline drive attempt out to the perimeter.

From the fifth minute Lions levelled up to produce a 15-1 run instigated by a powerfull two handed slam dunk from Turner to overwhelm the visitors. Turner was also dominant in rebounds and Liverpool were looking demoralised as the first quarter ended 20-6.

The second quarter was a different tale as Liverpool managed to develop some scoring rhythm. Deveney and Obvia managed to not only rescue the blushes but combined for 16pts to close the gap to just 6pts. Manny Kabengele connected two nice jump shots, but the second quarter was one to forget for the hosts and at half time the scores were much more inviting for Liverpool, trailing as they were, but back in the game at 33-24.

The third quarter was back in favour of Teesside as Matt Hughes produced a strong display with an 8pt haul. This added to a sparkle of hustle fired up the Lions and they yet again took dominant control of the game. Smith finished with a 3-pointer to take the period 24-13.

As the game headed into the final quarter Liverpool were down 56-37, but proudly fought on until the end of the game. A late highlight in the game was delivered by Theo Turner with a one handed slam on Deveney which brought an eruption of cheers from the Teesside crowd. Lions were able to run the bench in the latter stages and finish the game as worthy victors 70-49.

Teesside were without Eddie Matthew and were not at their optimum but managed to deliver an industrious performance and keep the opposition below 50pts. Coach Hylands took a reduced playing role to focus on coaching and managed to get the best out Theo Turner, a big presence who will be vital in the playoff run. He dominated rebounds with 15, added 10pts, including two poster dunks and dished out 3 assists. Luke Mitchell handed out another nine assists while Matt Hughes produced a good run at a crucial stage of the game. Manny Kabengele however was awarded the MVP for his solid 10pt, 10 rebound and 2 block performance and high energy defence. He was a constant were others were patchy, and serves as a reminder that there is much more to come from the Teesside Lions team.

Top Scorers

Teesside: Smith 18, Hughes 14, Kabengele 10, Turner 10, Stewart 7, Mitchell 6

Liverpool: Deveney 16, Obvia 10, Ward 8

Game MVP: Emmanuel Kabengele

Teesside now prepare for the visit of UEL London Lions to Eston Arena this Easter Sunday in the quarter final game. The fixture will be the toughest yet and Lions are again calling on the Teesside crowd to turn up and support the team in their bid to reach the semi.

Tickets are available now at TeessideLions.com