Rural schools take shot at ISSA basketball finals

The ISSA rural basketball competition enters an exciting phase today as the under-16 and under-19 semifinals tip off with the final four teams gearing up for a shot at the coveted championship titles.

The stakes are higher than ever, and today's matchups are sure to deliver fierce competition as teams battle for a place in the finals.

In the U19 league, unbeaten and reigning champions Manchester High host a dangerous Herbert Morrison Technical High School (HMTHS) in a clash that promises fireworks, at 1:30 p.m.

In their last quarterfinal games, Manchester's U16 and U19 teams demolished York Castle 95-17 and 150-32, respectively.

Levar Rose, coach of HMTHS said the team needs to display consistency for a chance to win.

"We have to remain focused and ensure we make the necessary adjustments needed to get us to where we want to be which is the finals. Our opponents are tough but we have to ensure we have our head in the game," said Rose.

COMMANDING WIN

After cruising through the league, HMTHS' unbeaten record was snapped by Holmwood Technical High with a commanding 64-46 win.

Looking to bounce back, HMTHS will need the maturity of sharpshooter Joshua Ferguson to help give them a fighting chance.

"We can't afford to crumble at this stage, so we need to keep our communication on point and display what we have been preparing for," added Rose.

At 3 p.m., Holmwood Technical will host Knox College in what promises to be a thrilling encounter at Manchester High School.

In high spirits, the Andre Brown-coached Holmwood says the aim is to remain focused on the task ahead.

"We played Knox twice this season and won both games. The plan is not to be comfortable and respect our opponents. We have to be ready defensively and bear in mind that they are a much better team than they were earlier in the season. We cannot take anything for granted," said Brown.

HOMECOURT ADVANTAGE

He also emphasised the importance of sticking to their game plan as they aim to capitalise on homecourt advantage against a tough Knox team.

Holmwood's Melvin Ragoo will need to bring his 'A' game to help keep their season alive.

"We just have to start the game much stronger than we did against HMTHS and also finish stronger," added Brown.

Knox, however, are no pushovers and could push Holmwood, especially given the lingering animosity from their last encounter.

They will look to shake things up and redeem themselves in winning the first game.