CBL | Photos | Lady Gators suffer narrow defeat to Seymour

Seymour Lady Blasters 66

Shepparton Gators 75 d

Seymour Blasters 72

Shepparton's north-east Country Basketball League outfits made their return to the court on Saturday night in a double-header event at Shepparton Sports Stadium.

It was a mixed night for the home crowd with the Lady Gators suffering a four-point loss, however, the atmosphere was elevated with a stirring three-point win by the men's outfit.

The win by the Gators’ men moves them to first position on the ladder, while the Lady Gators slump to fourth spot.

Although the Lady Gators were unable to clinch their third win, it was a stunning performance from them.

Staring at a 15-point deficit at half-time, the Lady Gators fought back bravely to lead by one-point at the final change, before going down in the final minute of the match.

“Unfortunately, we were unable to get the result, but we walk away extremely pleased with our performance,” coach Chris Judd said.

“The team did a terrific job with four players out and up against one of the better sides in the league.

“I couldn't fault their effort, they did a tremendous job.”

Led by teenager Kior Zito (22 points), the Lady Gators were able to get out to a three-point lead early in the last term.

Briarna Moon (12 points) and Gemma Kerr (eight) chipped in and provided Zito with plenty of grunt.

Judd said he was impressed with the fightback.

“At half-time we trailed by 15 points and so we needed to really regroup,” he said.

“And they came out and played superbly, they showcased real grit and determination.”

Judd praised each player's performance in the fightback, especially the effort of young guard Zito.

“Each player deserves a mention for their efforts, but Kior Zito was a real standout for us,” he said.

“Her leadership, for a 17-year-old, really stood out.

“As the point guard, she is the general and she did a terrific job for us.

“She's taken some really big steps.”

● For the Gators’ men, star forward Atem Atem dominated with 36 points in the 75-72 win against Seymour.

Teammates Nick Dodd (17) and Jordan Michel (13) provided inspirational efforts in the cut-throat win.

Looking ahead to this weekend, both Shepparton outfits have a bye.