Rebels Fall Short After Late Rider’s Comeback in Overtime

Rebels face a narrow 99-101 defeat to the Riders after an overtime comeback from Loughborough in Overtime.

After a closely contested start, the Rebels seized control of the first quarter through a balanced scoring display. The visitors struck first with the Rider’s Dan Hadley converting a free throw before adding a 2-point lay-up to see the Riders go ahead 1-3. 

The Rider’s continued their strong start as dynamic duo Henderson and Cook contributed to Loughborough’s lead. However, the Rebels ensured this lead would not continue, with two free throws from captain Kyron Martin followed by a three-pointer from Cisse, giving the Rebels their first lead of the game at 8-7.  With Aliou Cisse, Tre Baumgardner and Tyresse Hudson all contributing offensively, the Rebels gradually pulled away and finished the opening quarter with a convincing 29-16 advantage. 

The Rebels maintained their advantage throughout the second quarter, with Amako opening the scoring, before a well-worked connection between Tre Baumgardner and Tyresse Hudson restored Essex’s momentum. However, the Riders responded quickly on the counter, with star summer signing, Kurtis Henderson narrowing the gap, reducing the deficit to single digits heading into the break.  

Despite the Riders’ late surge, the Rebels held on to a tight 47-40 advantage at half time.  

The Rebels came out firing after the break, with Aliou Cisse scoring Essex’s first four points of the quarter to extend their lead. The Rebels remained in front but a very even contest filled the third quarter with Henderson continuing to inspire Riders’ attack. Amako proved to be a crucial spark in the closing stages of the third quarter working hard on the offense and defence to keep a 70-63 lead.  

Michael Amako carried his momentum into the final quarter, extending the Rebels’ lead by 7 with under 7 minutes left on the clock. Despite continued pressure from Tyresse Hudson and Tre Baumgardner, the Riders refused to go away, with Kurtis Henderson leading a determined comeback. 

However, the game took a dramatic turn late on when an on-court altercation resulted in three Rebels players, Will White, Daniel Johnson-Thompson and Reyad West, being immediately disqualified for entering the court from the bench. This disqualification gave the Riders six free throws, in which Jalen Cook capitalised on 5 out of the 6, levelling the score to 90-90, forcing overtime. 

Despite good efforts from Martin and Cisse, Henderson continued his formidable form ending overtime with a narrow 99-101 win to the Riders.

The Rebels will return to the Essex Sport Arena this Sunday, 18 October, as the Men will face Hemel Storm at 4pm. Tickets are available on Fanbase.