Flyers 90 (22, 46, 70)
Celts 69 (20, 35, 59)

The Bristol Academy Flyers had a successful weekend with a comfortable 90 to 69 win versus the newly promoted Cardiff Celts. This win keeps the Flyers National Trophy semifinal hopes alive, and provided the Bristol side with a significant boost for the difficult upcoming weekend fixture versus the Reading Rockets.

It was the first game for Flyers new import, John Grazioli who finally arrived in the UK last Tuesday after numerous visa delays. Grazioli, despite only having a couple of practices before the game, showcased his ability scoring 23 points and grabbing 12 rebounds. Tyrone Treasure continued his great start to the season by top scoring the game for Bristol with 25 points while Brody Bishop added 18 points and 5 assists. Cardiff’s Gregory led all scorers with 31 points and Berry followed with 12 and 10 rebounds.

Cardiff started the game well taking an early 9 point lead halfway through the first period. Flyers responded with a run of 16 to 5 and a buzzer beater 3point shot by Rob Loftman that would take the flyers up by 2 for the start of the second period.

Flyers increased defensive pressure in the second quarter with 9 straight points by bristol’s new signing Grazioli. The west country team entered the changing room at half time leading 46 to 35.

Cardiff started strong in the third period bringing the score difference down to 9, however two consecutive three point scores by Bishop ensured the Flyers stayed out of reach, ending the third period leading by 11.

The fourth period was more of a formality, as the tired Celts could not keep up with Bristol’s high tempo. The final buzzer showed the home team gaining an important 90 to 69 victory.

Coach Andreas Kapoulas was pleased with the Flyers performance: “Cardiff, despite being newcomers to this league, are a tough high-spirited team. Winning the way we did proves how much we have improved in these last few weeks. John Grazioli has shown what a great asset he will be for our club. He is a hard-working, team orientated player and has impressed everyone so far.”

“The players we had missing due to injury are slowly coming back, so the team is getting stronger all the time. The important components are to keep playing together and working hard for the entire 40 minutes. Next weekend’s games against Reading for the trophy and Plymouth for the cup are going to be difficult. We really respect both opponents, but at the same time we really look forward to beating them."