Match Recap: NBL22 Round 4 vs Sydney Kings

Melbourne United have won their final game of 2021, locking down the Sydney Kings in the second half to snap a long losing streak in the harbour city.

United got off to the perfect start, scoring the opening four points through Caleb Agada and Jo Lual Acuil Jnr.

Despite this hot beginning, there would be no repeat of Melbourne’s epic 26-0 run from their meeting in Round 3, with the Kings able to hit back quickly.

Offensive rebounds were key for the home side across the first 10 minutes, with Sydney able to score seven points off four O-boards to push out in front.

Trailing by as many as five points, Melbourne were able to cut the deficit to just two points heading into the first break following some nice outside shooting from Mason Peatling.

The second quarter was a tale of two halves, with the Kings enjoying the advantage over the first five minutes.

Sydney went on an 8-0 run to pull ahead by seven points, as Melbourne Captain Chris Goulding struggled to find his range, missing all four of his three pointers to that point.

Ever-confident, CG43 trusted in his own ability, and went on a tear, knocking down a trio of triples as part of a 13-0 run from United.

Buoyed by Goulding’s shooting (20 points, five three-pointers) and some great production on both ends from JLA (12 points, two blocks), Melbourne were able to hold off Sydney across the remainder of the period, taking a 44-40 lead into half time.

The second half started much the same as the second quarter ended, with CG43 knocking down a tough three-pointer, before the Kings rallied back.

While United remained in front for the entirety of the term, Sydney fought hard to wrestle away the lead, reducing the margin to a single point midway through the period.

With the game up for grabs, it was the defending champs who showcased their quality, locking down the Kings and pulling away across the final 15 minutes of action.

Once again, it was Caleb Agada who propelled Melbourne to victory thanks to some elite play at both ends.

Agada finished the game with 24 points, 14 rebounds, four steals, four blocks, and three assists.

This, combined with United’s trademark brand of elite defense (28 points allowed in the second half, nine points allowed in the fourth quarter, held Sydney to 30% shooting), led Melbourne to run away with the 14-point victory.

The win snaps a string of seven consecutive losses against the Kings at Qudos Bank Arena, and extends Melbourne’s winning streak to three games.

United’s next game will come on New Years Day, on the road against the Tasmania Jack Jumpers. Fans can tune in live via ESPN or Kayo.