WINTERBOURNE Wolves, the U14 basketball team at Winterbourne International Academy, beat their toughest opposition yet to reach the quarter-finals of the National Schools Basketball Competition.

Churston Ferres from Torbay, managed by the South West England junior coach, turned up with a well drilled outfit and deep bench, but Winterbourne Wolves were going to take some stopping.

The defences were impeccable and the first period ended 9-5 to the home team.

Leo Kayar came out strong in the second quarter, scoring two quick successive baskets.

The Wolves continued to extend the lead and by half-time were up by eight.

After a few misses, Seb Hodge started to get his eye in and hit two big three-point shots. The third quarter score was 18-18.

Despite some outstanding defence from Marley Butler, Brandon Hatt and Rory Schofield, Churston clawed their back within four points with five minutes to play.

After a quick regroup, Hodge launched a three-point shot like an arrow into the heart of the visitors. The crowd went crazy.

Captain Oli Carey, Callum Fitzgerald and Hodge saw out the game, scoring a total of 16, 16 and 17 points respectively to win the game 56-46.

Winterbourne Wolves: Oli Carey (c), Callum Fitzgerald, Seb Hodge, Morgan Stiles, Leo Kayar, Brandon Hatt, Marley Butler, Rory Schofield, Harry Padfield.