Force Strike Back: Portsmouth Outlast Cobras in a Close Encounter
Saturday saw Portsmouth Force host the Bracknell Cobras at the Ravelin Centre, facing an unknown challenge as it was their first matchup of the season. The game started at a furious pace, with both teams working each other out and trading baskets. Fans were kept on the edge of their seats as Cobras held on through the first quarter, ending it with a narrow 1-point lead.
The second quarter continued in much the same way, with Cobras threatening to strike with long-range shots every time Force tried to establish a lead. However, Force managed to claw back and win the quarter by a single point, leaving the game tied at 40-40 going into halftime.
The second half began with Force pushing the pace, quickly edging out to a lead. While the gap grew and shrank throughout the third quarter, Force ended it with a 4-point advantage. The final quarter saw Cobras refusing to back down. Each time Force came close to extending their lead into double digits, a quick-fire response from Cobras pulled them back into contention. Their defensive efforts also caused unfamiliar turnovers from Force, allowing Cobras to not only cut into the lead but briefly retake it.
This only strengthened the resolve of the Force bench. Tactical adjustments from the coaching staff saw Force regain their composure, retaking the lead and extending it to an 8-point advantage with just 5 seconds left in the game. A last-second deep three-pointer from the Cobras trimmed the margin to 5 points, but with no time remaining, Force held strong to secure their 10th league win of the season.
Don’t miss Portsmouth Force as they aim to continue their unbeaten streak! Tickets for the next home game are available now—get yours today.
Report written by Andy Rowlands.