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Reigning champs Bulls get off to a flyer with big win

Justin FrisSouth Western Times
Travis Durnin was a man on a mission for the Bulls on Friday night, dropping 42 points in the season opener.
Camera IconTravis Durnin was a man on a mission for the Bulls on Friday night, dropping 42 points in the season opener. Credit: Justin Fris

Reigning Bunbury Basketball Association men’s A-Grade premiers Bulls rolled to a 113-40 victory over the Eaton Eagles at the South West Sports Centre on Friday night, with Travis Durnin dropping a game-high 42 points.

Tipped to be a tough proposition prior to the season opener, the champs oozed confidence as they clinically disposed of their spirited opponents.

With height and experience on their side, the Bulls began brightly, with Durnin slotting a clinical three-point shot inside the opening 38 seconds.

Weathering an early storm, the Eagles attempted to gain some momentum, with Jay Ridley and Owain Sims doing all they could to generate polished delivery into the keyway.

Sims managed to put away a long-range effort which trimmed the margin to a point, however this only re-energised the powerful Bulls offensive unit.

Durnin, Trent Worthington and Paddy Phillips proceeded to orchestrate a 9-0 offensive run midway during the first term, which effectively put the result beyond doubt.

After a workmanlike season with the Mandurah Magic at SBL level, Durnin showed how much he has learnt under the guidance of Magic coach Aaron Trahair.

Prepared to run lanes, share the ball and also take his opportunities from long-range, Durnin became the Bulls’ offensive lock for the remainder of the game, which allowed Clive Weeden and James Goodlad to quietly go about their business.

Sims (16 points) played a lone hand in attack for the Eagles, who were denied quality offensive looks by the vice-like defensive rearguard enforced by the reigning premiers.

Coasting with a 96-38 lead with four minutes and change left in the match, the Bulls powered home with 17 of the last 19 points, with Goodlad and Durnin combining for three successive long-range efforts.

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