The Lazers travelled to Canberra last Saturday, July 7 and played a young Gunners team who were full of energy.  

Lazers were without two of their star players; Jaidyn Goodwin who was away on holidays and Adam Marjoram who is still recovering from a ankle injury which has seen him side-lined for three games.

The Gunners got the early jump on the Lazers and built a good lead, they ran the floor with speed, skipped the ball around with speed and got of a number of outside shots. 

The Lazers were putting up a number of good shots but unfortunately could not find the bottom of the ring.

The Lazers were also struggling in defence as they could not find their rhythm early after the long drive from Lithgow to Canberra.

Canberra at half time were out in front by around 20 points and if the Lazers were to get back into the game they would have to find something special in the second half.

At half time the coaching staff spoke to the Lazers about firstly lifting their heads up, concentrating on defence and attacking the basket at every opportunity.

This talk seemed to work as the team slowly worked their way back into the game, and the pressure was being applied back on the Canberra team who started to get into foul trouble.

Lazers, Matur Maluch and Terrence Durham, attacked the ring at every opportunity and the points started to build up against the Gunners.

Michael Cox also found his range from the three point line and suddenly with approximately one minute to go the Lazers were only two points behind.

But a contentious un-sportsmen foul was handed to Michael Cox and he was fouled out of the game.

This put the Gunners on the line and they converted both goals and as much as the Lazers tried, the hard work of the last half took a toll on their defence and the Gunners got away with a 85 to 82 win. 

Coach Richard Marjoram was proud of the way the boys responded after half time and their committed effort but would have been happier to get the two completion points.

Lazers still sit in equal fourth position and are just ahead on percentages.

It is vital that Lazers win firstly at home this weekend coming against Shoalhaven Tigers (and remain undefeated at home) and then the following weekend at Bankstown.

This could see the Lazers move up the ladder if other results go their way.

Top scorers for lazers were Matur Maluch on 40, Terrence Durham with 26, scoring15 from the free throw line and Michael Cox on 13.

Lazers home game against the Tigers next weekend should see the team at full strength for the first time in a number of weeks.

Richard Marjoram said it would be greatly appreciated if supporters came along to cheer on the Lazers.