Brilliant Patriots tame the Lions

THE two richest basketball teams in the country headed to town at the weekend, and both were made to work by the new-look Plymouth City Patriots, who showed more than enough grit and determination for a team that has had to introduce two new signings in as many weeks.

- PABLO CHEEKS

The Gladiators would scrape the win in the first game 72-82, but the Sunday fixture would prove to be one for the ages.

The Lions rolled into town Sunday afternoon in relative luxury. The luxury that comes from having billionaire owners, with a roster that boasted a number of high-profile British and overseas players. The fact remains that the Lions did perhaps underestimate the Patriots, only bringing with them a handful of the superstars that currently reside on their roster.

Even so, the London team were still heavy favourites and were looking to come to the South West, take an early lead and be back on the coach to the nation's capital before anyone in Plymouth noticed.

However, it did not unfold in that manner. From the opening tip off the Patriots and their ever-loyal fan base, had a level of intensity that they have only previously displayed in fits and starts so far this season.

The Patriots didn't play like a team that had only managed one win from their previous 11 games. Defensively, they played with a ferociousness that made it increasingly difficult for the Lions to gain any kind of momentum. Time and again they forced turnovers, interrupted the passing lane and pressured their opposing numbers like possessed men.