Sonics push their way into Albany Basketball Association men’s A-grade top four after thrilling final round

New club Sonics secured their place in the Albany Basketball Association men’s A-grade finals after a thrilling final round win on Tuesday night. Heading into round 16 just two points separated the top five teams, with Sonics in fifth place and needing a win to play finals. Sonics prevailed by seven points over Raiders under-18 development squad to surge into the top four and replace fellow newcomers Infernos. Infernos sat in fourth on the same points as Sonics but had a bye in the final round and gained only two points. Sonics led by eight points at the main break and resisted a strong challenge from the young Raiders to finish 48-40 winners. Raiders got the margin back to six points late in the game and Sonics had to endure some tense moments to hold on. David Arthur top scored with 15 points in the win and Kye Griffiths was vital with 10. Jordan Pansoy toiled hard for Raiders with 15 points. Denmark Magpies continued their surge up the ladder to finish their first season in second spot and secure a finals double chance. The Magpies have won their last five games and pinched second spot in the final round after a comfortable 47-35 victory over Ambassadors. Their 12-point win helped them jump to second and Ambassadors, who were on top, slipped to third. Jed Finigan was important in the win with 21 points while Caleb Carman top scored for Ambassadors with 14. A fifth straight win helped Barking Owls grab top spot after holding on in an epic against Tigers 54-53. The Owls recorded a slender one-point win, Justin Benson (24 points) pivotal with five triples and Tom Powell (13) was also busy. Danial Abbott (16) and Tim Button (13) led the way for Tigers. Meanwhile The Sharks produced a clinical performance against Railways Tigers to finish their season on a winning note. The Sharks ran out emphatic 73-39 winners as Jake Louthean and Callum Bolsher top scored in the win with 16 points each.