Goulding anticipating another intense Throwdown matchup

There are few games that deliver as much excitement and intensity as Melbourne United’s Throwdown matchups with the South East Melbourne Phoenix.

This is something Chris Goulding is acutely aware of, having suited up in more games against the Phoenix than any other player.

United’s captain has taken to the court in all but one of the previous 21 times the rivals have faced off, bringing home 14 victories in the process.

Heading into Throwdown XXII on Sunday however, Goulding says the focus surrounding the team simply revolves around returning to the winner’s circle against a tough opponent.

“At the moment, coming off a loss, we just want to win a game, it wouldn’t matter who we were playing,” he said.

“Same town, two good teams, they’re doing really well, they’re playing at a high level and they’ve got some weapons on the floor.

“It’s a good test for us to see where we’re at, it’s going to be an intense game like it always is and we want to get another away win.”

The first time the teams met this season, United stifled the Phoenix, allowing just 67 points; the lowest score by any team this season thus far.

While Goulding only scored seven points in that outing, the sharpshooter has displayed a proclivity for going off against SEM, including a 30-point, seven three-pointer performance in NBL23 as part of the largest victory in the Throwdown’s history (110-85 win for MU).

Perhaps looking to repeat this showing on Sunday, Vickerman said he could see a different sort of ‘edge’ to CG43 on the practice floor on Friday.

“Today in practice, I thought there was a little edge about him as he prepares to go into a Throwdown,” he explained.

“There’s been a number of games where he’s brought us back into it, where he’s punched out the lead when we’ve played really good defence.

“It’ll be a key for us to ensure that we get him quality looks in this game.”

United will face off against South East Melbourne on Sunday afternoon from 2pm at John Cain Arena.

Supporters can tune into the matchup live and free on 10 Peach and Kayo Freebies.