Schueller praises XRM, crowd energy after OT win

Written by Melbourne United Media

While far from perfect, Melbourne United Assistant Coach Justin Schueller said he and his fellow coaches are taking plenty of positives away from their opening game victory over the New Zealand Breakers.

Led by the dynamic duo of Chris Goulding and Xavier Rathan-Mayes, United scorched the nets from beyond the arc, dropping in 18 triples en route to the overtime win.

Speaking to MU Media after the game, Schueller heaped praise on Rathan-Mayes for his impressive home debut.

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“He’s had some really good growth in the preseason and with Shea (Ili) out right now. We’ve asked for a bigger load from him,” Schueller said.

“Right now for him to be making the shots that he did, but also providing the ball pressure he was really pleased us.

“It was a great first home game for him and hopefully we can continue to build on it.”

XRM shone the brightest when the game was on the line in the final quarter and overtime, scoring 15 of his 33 points in the final 15 minutes.

A reason for this stellar finish to the game could be closely linked to the energy of the John Cain Arena crowd, who roared with excitement each and every time the Canadian guard came up with a big play.

United will be hoping their fans will bring a similar energy to their next game, when they face the Sydney Kings at home as they debut their new Roll’d Rally Towels.

With John Cain Arena set to Bring The Blue, Scheuller said the game against the Kings can’t come soon enough.

“I thought the crowd was outstanding. We wanted to reward our fans today,” he continued.

“To picture (the Rally Towels) with the crowd will be a great thing for the arena… I look forward to going against Sydney next week with an even bigger and louder crowd.”

For those looking to attend, get in quick, as tickets are sure to fly off the shelves! Tickets are available NOW, while memberships remain available for those looking to lock in their seat for every United game this season!