Game Preview: 36ers vs Dragons

5/OCT/2007 – Crucial match-up for both clubs here, with the 36ers looking to consolidate an early position in the eight and the Dragons attempting to pick up their first win of the season.

The 36ers defeated the Hawks relatively comfortably in the opening round, but were found wanting against the tall and physical Melbourne Tigers in the second round.

The Dragons don't pose a line-up with as much physical presence as the Tigers, so Adelaide bigs Adam Ballinger, David Cooper and Axel Dench should be able to control the boards against Nick Horvath, Jacob Holmes and Matt Burston.

The Dragons have made a disappointing start to the season, but having defeated the 36ers twice during the 2006/2007 season, they will fancy their chances in this one.

South Australians Joe Ingles and Holmes return to their home state for this clash and will be fired up for a good performance.

This duo, along with guard Cortez Groves and player-coach Shane Heal will need to be hitting their shots after a dismal performance against the Wildcats saw them register just 81 points, and shoot at a poor 33.3 per cent from the field.

Unless the Dragons are hitting their shots from beyond the arc, the 36ers look to have too much size in this contest.

Ballinger has started the season in style for the 36ers and he should be able to continue with his excellent form against the undersized Dragons line-up.

Tip-off is 8:00pm at the Distinctive Homes Dome, Saturday the 6th of October.