First, after struggling through the final month of the season, his injury-depleted side soundly defeated 2nd place Guildford Heat in the final game of the regular season. The Rocks are back on form.
Second, both Bilal Clarance and Julius Joseph are fit to play on Wednesday which will give him one more player than he had on Sunday. Clarance played on a sore ankle, but Joseph sat out with a bruised hand. Both are ready and eager to play on Wednesday.
And finally, the playoffs offer a chance to start over. There have been some disappointing losses for the Rocks this season on the way to a 5th place finish, but those can now be forgotten.
“We’ve got the same chance as everyone now,” Davis said. “We’re not chasing anyone up the table – just one win and we advance. Anything can happen then.”
THE GAME...
On the Rocks chances against the Lions, Davis commented,
“They’re a physical team and it will be a hostile atmosphere down there with all their fans packed in, but we’ve beaten them in their place before. There’s no reason we can’t do it again.”
Looking more positive than he’s been in weeks, Davis added his thoughts on the return of his injured teammates,
“It’s great to have Bilal and JJ back. They’re important weapons in our game plan and I know we’ll need them on Wednesday. Everyone’s feeling really good now that they’re back. It really gives us a lift.”
THE HISTORY...
The history book says the Rocks only BBL Playoff Championship came in 2003 after they had finished the regular season in 6th place. The Rocks opponent in the championship game that year were the Brighton Bears - who were led by none other than Sterling Davis.
Having suffered that agonizing defeat 5 years ago, Davis knows that an underdog can be very dangerous in this League. Another reason to smile.
* * *
Posted on 22 April, 2008
