It has been rumoured that the Singapore Indoor Stadium is a formidable challenge to any opposing team. The Sydney Kings showed that it’s not just a physical game but mentally it takes a little bit extra to compete in the Island Nation.
3 time NBL Champions the Sydney Firepower Kings left their guard down as they let the humid conditions disrupt their preparations. Trading blows each time down the floor the visitors would never see the lead the entire game. Singapore would emerge victorious in what would become the Slingers most satisfying win of the season.
Now with two days in the Queensland tropics the Slingers have dispatched the Cairns Taipans in an effort to go two straight on the road.
Two days after their motivating win over the Kings the Slingers only gave up a one point lead to the hometown Cairns team late in the third quarter. Fighting back quickly they took control and re-established the lead to emerge victorious by twelve points.
Moving to Townsville now, Saturday will see Singapore play their third game in four days. Home of the fouth placed Townville Crocodiles the Slingers will attempt to take the series win 2-1 as they complete their Queensland roadtrip.
Being a familiar roadtrip to Mike Helms, Singapore’s import guard will be a concern to the hosts. This trip last season Mike took weekly honours and was awarded player of the round as he scored a game high 42 points against the Crocs.
The Slingers have now moved into eight spot, giving the team a realistic glimpse of the playoffs. Two big games for the NBL’s newest team to watch is the Hawks V Crocs and the Breakers V 36ers. Both the 36ers and the Hawks will be competing along with the Slingers for that vital playoff position.
Bringing home the ‘w’ tomorrow night will place the Slingers two games clear of both 36ers and Hawks going into round 18. With just four rounds left after Townsville the Slingers play top eight teams 5 time out of their remaining eight games.
The challenge is on to to take the Island Nation to the big dance.
