BEARS head coach Tom Masterson says his team gave everything despite coming back from Northern Ireland empty handed against NI Knights.
The newly-promoted side came out on top in the 61-56 defeat, but despite losing out, Warwickshire were able to take heart after pushing the Knights all the way with a depleted squad.
Speaking on the game, Masterson said: “I’d like to congratulate the Knights on the win and a great game.
“I thought we had the game in the last quarter, but we just ran out of steam.
“I can’t fault the team as they gave everything and it was just a shame, we didn’t have the full squad with us but I look forward to the home game.”
Taking just six players across the Irish Sea, it was the hosts who started brightest of the two teams, building a solid lead in the opening quarter.
Jason Kennedy and Matt Rollston were able to find the route to the Bears’ basket at regular intervals and were precise with their shooting.
Trailing by eight goals at the end of the first quarter, the Bears finally began to make their chances count and were growing in confidence, although the Northern Irish side still retained the lead with a 32-24 score at half time.
That momentum continued into the third quarter, where Warwickshire not only drew level, but went four points in front with a 45-41 advantage going into the final 15 minutes of play.
But with the hosts finding an extra gear and pressing Bears all over the court, the Knights were left with only a slight chink in their armour after coming back to win by just five points.
Bears sit fifth in the National League Premier Division, and return to action in just over two weeks time against Sheffield Steelers.
