News Flash

Latest News and updates will be posted on this page.

Please check back regularly.

Join the EMBL group.

Last Update 19th Jan

Stars & Lakers Team photographs now on Facebook more teams to be added over the next few weeks.

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Also check out the photos of the play off finals - you do not need to be a member of facebook to view.

Last update 25TH DEC

HAPPY CHRISTMAS FROM THE EMBL..................

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Last update 31st October

Two games in the EMBL to rearange.

6A TIGERS vs STARS

11A FOREST vs TIGERS

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Last update 10th October

TIGERS V STARS CALLED OFF

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Last update 4th October

The EMBL gets under way this week with games on Tuesday & Thursday.

Tuesday 4th Cardinals v Tigers At Rushcroft School

Thursday 5th Erks v Forest At Forest school

Thursday 5th Lammas v stars At Lammas school

see the club page for court details.

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Last update 24th AUGUST

Want to join one of the EMBL Basketball Clubs ?

Open basketball session ...Tuesday 6th September at Rushcroft school Chingford. 7.30pm

On arrival please see Wayne or Chris.

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EMBL

Cardinals are still running an open session at Wanstead Youth Centre on Tuesday evenings (7.30 to 9.30), cost is £3. This will run at least up to the end of June. If anyone is looking to play / keep fit then they are welcome to come along.

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Last update 24th June

The EMBL league season will start week commencing 3rd October 2011.

The EMBL welcome new team Lammas Legends to the 2011/ 2012 season.

Training dates will appear on this page as soon as the clubs confirm them.

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THE EMBL HAS FACEBOOK................

Join the EMBL group.

Also check out the photos of the play off finals - you do not need to be a member of facebook to view.

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EMBL AGM

The date for the Essex Metropolitan Basketball League AGM is Tuesday 21st June.

If you are not a current EMBL team and wish to enter a new team into this league please email wayneratford@hotmail.co.uk by no later than Monday 6th June.

If you have any items you would like brought up at the AGM or you wish to stand for election to the committee, please send an email to me ASAP so this can be added to the final AGM Agenda witch will be sent out to you one week prior to the meeting with all relevant forms for the 2011/2012 season.

Annual General Meeting

Essex Metropolitan Basketball League

Location: Barking Rugby Football Club, Gale Street, Dagenham

Date/Time: Tuesday 21ST June 2010 – 7:30pm

IT IS COMPULSORY FOR ALL CLUBS WISHING TO CONTINUE IN OR TO JOIN THE ESSEX METROPOLITAN BB LEAGUE TO HAVE REPRESENTATION AT THE AGM

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Last update 21th April

EMBL PLAY OFF FINAL Stars v Erks.

Looking back over the past 10 seasons in the EMBL it is clear to see that the team that won the League title have gone on to win the play offs as well. With this in mind Stars the current EMBL champions were playing last year’s double winners Erkenwald. Stars had already beaten Erks twice in the league by two points in the away game and three points in the home game. This was going to be close. With high tension leading up to the game both teams had points to prove.

With a crowd of over thirty people watching and more arriving throughout the game, The EMBL may have to seek a bigger venue for the final in the future. The game started with Erks in the black away kit and stars in the red kit, you could easy see the two different teams. With 3 refs on the court and at least six qualified ones in the crowd you knew no call would be missed. Both sides hit the ring with their first few shots but finally Erks M. Denchfield hit a sweet three pointer to get the game going. The game moved from end to end and both teams scraped under the baskets for all the shots that seemed to bounce off the boards and rings, Denchfield seemed to be the first to get used to the rings and hit two more threes to pull Erks into a 20 -15 lead by the end of the first quarter

As the game restarted you felt that Erks had a slightly better bench than Stars and had a high advantage. E.Seaman of Stars fought off numerous Erks players to try and win boards as more shots fell short or rimed out. Erks moved the ball into Churches and forced Stars to work hard on defence but as soon as the ball went in Erks moved it back out to Mark who by now had found his three point spot on the court. P.Edwards was not going to go down without a fight and hit two baskets and a three pointer to keep the game close. With E.Seaman being failed under the basket and hitting a high percentage of his three throws (even when the crowd jeered him).Erks took a 5 point lead in to half time 39-34.

As you looked round the sports hall at half time, the amount of basketball players from Cardinals, Lakers, Tigers & even Alan from Forest were chewing at the bit to get on court and show off their basketball skills.

The court was cleared by the three team officials whistles and we were ready to go again.

Stars came out the quickest with young rising Star D.Esprit hitting his first points of his game.

Erks woke up at this point and with D.Churches now moving freely inside he started the charge that would lead to 2 three pointers from Denchfield and a three from himself.

Churches then showed his experience and with E .Seaman in foul trouble (but still not had a break) all Erks had to do was drive in on him. P.Prazych did this to great affect.

S Ogunjmi was trying to keep Stars in the game and with a little help from P.Edwards and Mead they managed to pulled the game back so that Erks went to the fourth quarter with a 64-50 lead.

Erks believing that the game was won seemed to come out in a daze. Stars Coach

A .Clark must have given some speech to his team as for the next seven minutes they scored 14 points to Erks 5. With a time out called by coach McCulister this was going to be a great last 3 minutes of basketball. Stars 65 Erks 69.

M.Drenchfield hit a three and followed up with 2 twos, this opened the gap back up to 9 points. Edwards & Seaman put the pressure straight back on and got it back to 69-74. Time out called by Stars .With time running out we all knew this was going to be the longest minute of basketball. Stars failed every time Erks got the ball and sent all time Erks legend K.Pringle to the line. He made one of the two 75-69 Erks. Prazych was then sent to the line and missed both his shots, Stars broke and S.Ogunjimi drove to the basket and tried to draw a foul as he went up . The basket went in but no foul was given. 71-75 Erks. As Ogunjimi protested with one of the three referees he was given a technical foul. M Drenchfield stepped up but missed the shots, in the melee that followed K .Pringle was fouled and was sent to the line with under 4 seconds left. Pringle with all his years experience should have felt no pressure but somehow managed to miss the first shot. As the second shot went in you knew there was no chance of a comeback. As the buzzer sounded Erks had regained the Play off Trophy that they had only given back to the EMBL a week ago.

Final score Erks 76-71 Stars

The League trophy was presented to Stars and Erks were presented with the Play off trophy.

Both teams were well deserving of their rewards and the EMBL can’t wait to see what happen next season.

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Last up date 20th April

Well done to Erks who last night beat Stars 76-71 to become the EMBL play Off Champions.

The play of top scorer was M .Drenchfield.

Go to the result page to see the top five play off scorers.

A match report will follow within the week & pitchers will appear shortly.

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Last Update 6/4/11

Erks 71 cardinals 67

The second part of the EMBL play offs was completed last night and in keeping with tradition the EMBL runners up Erks beat Cardinals 71-67 to make it to the play off finals where they will play the EMBL champions Stars.

Well done to all four teams that took part and lets hope the final is played in as good spirit as the semi finals.

EMBL PLAY OFF FINALS

STARS V ERKS

TUESDAY 19TH APRIL 2011

RUSH CROFT SPORTS COLLEGE RUSHCROFT ROAD CHINGFORD LONDON E4 8SG

TIP OFF 8PM

At the end of the game there will be a presentation of trophies both play off, league and also our four top scorers:

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Last Update 5/4/11

Stars v Tigers

The EMBL champions Stars tonight faced Tigers in the first EMBL play off.

Stars in their impressive warm up shirts practised shots from the half way line ,with Graham Hill hitting his first one he was bound to make the starting five.

The game got under way and both teams mist their first three shots.

Tigers got the first basket of the game but stars hit a three point shot straight after woods and pulled away to a 9 point lead. Tigers then went into overdrive and the league top scorer A.Sakurovas hit 2 three pointers. D.Ibrahima and M.Skapas both rebounded and out muscled Stars and went into a 21 -14 lead by the end of the first quarter.

The second quarter was much like the first and Tigers three star men seamed to sense that Stars were there for the beating. Tigers went on to hit 3 three pointers. Stars not going to be out dun hit two of their own. G.Hill boarded well for stars and had to fight for all the scraps that dropped of the rings. Stars finished the half with a three point gap on Tigers 43-40.

Tigers came out the stronger in the third quarter and pulled away to a 58-49 lead. With a double check on stars players it looked like Tigers were going to pull away. At this point EMBL top scorer runner up S.Oganjimi made it his job to pull Stars back into the game and scored the next 9 points to level the score at 57-57.

With the score locked S.Oganjimi lead a one man layup drive on Tigers basket .G Hill not to be out done tried a round the back layup, but the ball seamed to stick and Tigers made a fast break and the score was level at 67-67 with three minutes to play. G.Hill leads the charge and was failed on the way to the basket. He made one of the two shots but Tigers won the rebound and moved the ball from one end of the court to the other with M. skapas dancing round the Stars defence, he went to the hole but mist. S.Oganjimi then received the ball from the rebound and dribble from one end to the other, he scored 4 points and with one minute left had surly got Stars to the play of Final.

Tigers would still not lie down and pulled the score back to 69-72 with an impressive dunk.

G Hill again drove to the basket and scored .The inbound ball made its way to M.Skapas and again he drove from one end of the court to the other but was failed. He made the two shots and the score was 71-74 to Stars with 45 seconds left. Stars moved the ball around a run the clock down G .Hill ended up with the ball and his layup made it 76 -71 and saw Stars make it to the play of final.

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Last Update 5/4/11

Tonight EMBL Champions Stars v Tigers in the first of the EMBL play offs.

Tipp Off 7.45pm Rushcroft school.

Well done to A .Sakurovas who is the EMBL League Top Scorer.......

1 A.SAKUROVAS TIGERS 264 points.

2 M.DRENCHFIELD ERKS 190 points

3 D.IBRAHIMA TIGERS 180 points.

4 P.prazych ERKS 175 points.

Go to the result page for the full top ten...........

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Last Update 31st March

EMBL PLAY OFFS

Game s/f 1.. Stars v Tigers 5th April

Game s/f 2 Erks v Cardinals 6th April

EMBL FINAL.. 19th April

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Last Update 9/03/11

Stars win EMBL

Well done to Stars who last night became the EMBL league champions.

Second, third and fourth are still undecided and as soon as they are I will let you know the play off line up.

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Last Update 19/2/11

Are you looking to get back into Basketball......

Open training session at Rushcroft School 7.30pm Tuesday 22nd Feb.

why not come along......

Home court of Lakers.Stars & Cardinals

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Last Update 19/1/11

stars go top of the EMBL........

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Officials News

15th December 2010

To All Officials: The latest items relating to refereeing and table officiating can be found in this newsletter, additional items can be found on our website.

WHAT'S THE CALL?

In association with www.refereeclub.com

Why not test yourself with the knowledge of the rules by completing any of the test papers online. Practicing Yes/No questions is a great way to learn about the rules of the game.

Rules question: Shall a player be disqualified if he is charged with 2 technical fouls? Answer

IAN POLLARD DEVELOPMENT FUND

The Ian Pollard Development Fund (IPDF) was created in honour of not only an excellent British FIBA referee, but someone that was passionate about the development of referees from grass roots to international levels.

If you are aspiring to a higher level and will be attending training camps in which to improve your skills as a referee then why not apply for some funding?

FREE OFFICIATING & COACHING COURSES OFFERED IN LONDON

IN CONJUNCTION WITH TRUDENT U16 BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT

Award: Level 1 Table & Level 1 Referee

Date: Monday 27 December

Time: 9:30am - 4:30pm

Award: Level 3 Referee

Date: Monday 27 - Wednesday 29 December

Time: 9:30am - 4:30pm

Award: Level 1 & Level 3 Coach

Date: Monday 27 - Wednesday 29 December

Time: 9:30am - 4:30pm

Award: Level 3 Table

Date: Tuesday 28 - Wednesday 29 December

Time: 9:30am - 1pm followed by practical assessment and feedback during games

Location: Hendon Police College, Peel Centre, Aerodrome Road, Hendon, London, NW9 5JE

nearest tube: Colindale

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Last Update 16/12/10

Lakers 61 - Erks 85

Erks (well half of Erks) travelled down to Rushcroft Centre to face a fresh faced younger than usual Lakers team.

The night started with French turning up an hour early, eager to get back playing basketball after a long injury had seen him out for the start of the season. As eager as French was he had even swept the gym floor prior to any other team member turning up (even the home team) as there had been a cattle market going on in the hall by the look of it.

The Erks were very light on numbers with on 6 available, other Erks players were unable to play apparently due to snow blocking their door step and some not able to find a support band for a Hamstring strain, but the Asst Coach Eni was away on holiday (coaching course) to Trinidad and Tobago.

The game finally tipped off with both teams playing very scrappy basketball early on, with turn over's and fouls mainly on French's part which earned him an early bench ride after picking up 2 fouls in 2 minutes. Uncle Keith and Polish Pistol Pete were the only Erk's to put points on the board in the first quarter. There was some confusion with regards to the table horn and the music playing near the Erk's bench, we later discovered it was appreciation week of our Polish players and Polish Pistol Pete had bought along his own horn made out of the Big Foots Leg Bone and the music was the Polish anthem. The first quarter finished 8 - 10.

The second quarter started off with Pete coming out knocking down two inside off the spin jumpers (clearly the Polish Anthem had given him a boost). Shak and French both were entered into the game and with French making his way through the lane to earn him a quick two points from free throws. By this time it seemed Church had finally warmed up as he turned up 3 minutes before tip-off, Church managed to get himself on the score sheet from inside. With Lakers oddly slowing the ball down but then somehow managing to go through the entire Erks team and scoring easy buckets at will, it took a time out from Coach McCusker to tell his squad to play some defence, because if Erks carried on the way we were playing the game could have been a close win instead of a total wipeout win. Polish Pistol Pete and Uncle Keith again dominated the numbers on the scoreboard in the second quarter ending 23 - 33.

After a pretty intense half time talk from Coach McCusker the Erks seemed to come out a not so young fresh faced team looking to close out the game. It started off with French knocking down 4 3's in a row, with shouts coming from the bench of "French spot up".... but then the Lakers then went for an average team height of about 5ft 10", this made Church and Pete's eyes light up! With a quick time out and Coach McCusker pointing out the obvious of getting the ball inside to Church and Polish Pistol Pete to clear up. Church was fed the ball on numerous occasions and putting up inside shots with Lakers players hanging off his arms, legs and vest. But then still complaining that he does not get a foul call. After nearly 50 years of playing the game you would of thought Church would of learned not to moan to the Ref's about not getting a foul call as his freakish size the ref's won't call it. The third quarter scoreboard was dominated by French and Church ending 44 - 57.

The fourth quarter started with an energetic Shak Attack with some nice full court runs, passes and jump shots. Shak was also taking a beating from the Lakers team by being doubled teamed and sent flying across the gym floor. But the Erks managed to finally pull away with a significant lead with nearly all Erks players getting on the score sheet in the fourth quarter to close out the game with Erks winning 61 - 85.

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Last Update 22/10/10

ERKS LEGEND DIES

It is with great sadness to advise that Erkenwald legend Terry Harris passed away on the morning of Thursday 21st October 2010.

Terry was (almost) a founder member of the ERKS joining just a few short months after its formation in 1947 and was instrumental in its development through to full national league status. As a player, Terry’s was an incredible talent and a man truly ahead of his time. His shooting prowess was phenominal but this was matched in his application and his ability to ‘take the rules’ to the very edge. Incredible that he was still playing in the first team in his ‘50’s and he would surely be a member of any ‘all time Erkenwald team’.

Never one to be selfish, Terry was always looking to pass on his knowledge and experience to players. In later years he remained a supporter of the club and passed away with the picture of him holding the Founders Cup sitting proudly at the foot of his bed.

The word legend is used too often in life but in this example it is a fitting tribute.

Funeral details to be advised

RIP

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Last Update 16/10/10

Tigers played their 1st game in the EMBL this season against Lakers.

With the familiar guards Brain and Dave not even in the team Lakers should have sensed that something was amiss.

However some of the Lakers team knowing it was only Tigers, decided to turn up half way through the to a game. This was the biggest mistake that no other team will make after they see the new look Tigers team.

Tigers thoroughly deserved the victory and no amount of excuse should take that away from what now looks like a team that can play a fast break, rebound, defend and take outside shots with confidence.

Tigers 3 star men, out jumped, out shot and even dunked points to the amazement of all apart from the coaches Dave and Brian who have been drilling this team into what looks like the wild card for the EMBL title.

The EMBL look forward to seeing Tigers in their next game against Cardinals. Are

the stories that Brian has told over the years about how Tigers won the championship about to be relived?

With Henderson present at this game he will at least be able to warn Cardinals that the new look Tigers have refound their roar and will be looking for their second scalp in what is going to be a very interesting EMBL season.

Watch this space..................................

TIGERS 18/13/12/23 67

LAKERS 9/7/12/19 47

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Cardinals v Erks

Cardinals (13, 27, 36) 46 – Erks (15, 31, 54) 83

Erks opened their defence of the Essex Met title with a hammering of old rivals Cardinals that looked unlikely at half-time when the game was well poised with the visitors holding a 31-27 lead. Both teams were having trouble scoring in the first half in typically scrappy early season encounter, with the majority of Cardinals points coming on second, third or fourth chance baskets as their youthful line-up out-rebounded the Erks by a ratio of approximately 3:1.

Erkenwald’s offense was carried by point guard Keith Pringle in the first half as boosted by a strenuous off-season regime, the former Hainault veteran showed that he’s lost little of the explosive first step that he used to demonstrate occasionally when not feeding the ball into Tim Lewis or Graham Hill during Hainault’s championship years.

Pringle’s trademark flat as a pancake jump shot was also hitting the mark however and if Keith’s off-season regime was strenuous in pursuit of basketball fitness, the off-season regime of Erks inside duo Pete Prazych and Dave Churches was presumably strenuous in other ways, as they combined for 4 points and 4 quick fouls in a first half that saw Erks coach Declan McCusker going quickly to his bench to avoid his big men fouling out before half time.

Shaq Sangera’s six points in the late stages of the 2nd quarter kept Erkenwald’s noses in front and with the reserves holding their own, McCusker was able to interrogate Churches on the bench to ensure that the player in front of him was in fact the long time Erks stalwart rusty after a summer of baby-minding and not the Dave Churches impersonator first sighted in a must win game at Portsmouth in 1998, when the Erks’ usual 20 points and 12 rebounds from the centre position were replaced by no points and 3 boards.

At half-time, having determined that it was the real Churches in attendance, the Erks stressed defence and rebounding and they were immediately rewarded, as with only one chance to shoot on each trip down the floor, Cardinals managed just 9 points in the third period. At the other end, Prazych was showing signs of life, finding his way to the line a couple of times after a couple of trademark spin moves, but it was the Erks outside shooter Mark Drenchfield who really sprung to life, emerging from Cardinals swingman Seale’s pocket to hit three successive treys. By that stage Erks were out to a 54-38 lead and the final quarter saw them really apply the pressure as Cardinals fell apart in the face of a bombardment from Drenchfield.

The shooting guard took his tally to eight second half threes and ten for the game in a virtuoso display of shooting and as the defenders charged out to him, he also played the pick and roll game with Martin Overare feeding the rubber-limbed forward for a succession of double pump layups as Erks ran the margin to 37, Drenchfield looking happier at the end of the game than at any time since Sonia stopped playing the trumpet.

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Last Update 31/8/10

OPEN TRAINING DATES AT ...........

RUSH CROFT SPORTS COLLAGE

RUSHCROFT ROAD

CHONGFORD

LONDON

E4 8SG

START 21st SEPTEMBER 7.30PM

CARDINALS ,STARS & LAKERS ARE ALL LOOKING FOR NEW PLAYERS FOR THE 2010 2011 SEASON AT THIS VENUE.

ERKS & TIGERS ARE ALSO LOOKING FOR PLAYERS IN THE DAGENHAM AREA.

GO TO THE CLUB PAGE FOR CONTACT INFORMATION.

The fixtures for the EMBL 2010 2011 season are now available on the fixture page.

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Last Update 31/7/10

The EMBL 2010/2011 season

Lakers Tuesday night Central Venue

Stars Tuesday night Central Venue

Cardinals Tuesday night Central Venue

Tigers Thursday night Eastbury School

Forest Thursday night Forest School

Erks Wednesday nights Castle Green

Central venue . Rushcroft School

I will try to get the fixtures out to all clubs asap.

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Annual General Meeting

Essex Metropolitan Basketball League

Tuesday 22nd June 2010 – 7:30pm

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Agenda: Annual General Meeting

Essex Metropolitan Basketball League

Location: Barking Rugby Football Club, Gale Street, Dagenham Date/Time: Tuesday 22nd June 2010 – 7:30pm
 Apologies for Absence  Matters arising from last year's AGM minutes.  To Receive the Secretary's Report  To Receive the Treasurer's Report  Election of Officers  Applications for the League - Year 2010/2011  Behavior and discipline of players and clubs  Central venue  To decide on matters relevant to next season i.e. Agree League Fees, Officiating Fees, Referee Appointments, Standards of Administration, Registrations, Fines, etc.  A.O.B. at the Chairman's discretion.

IT IS COMPULSORY FOR ALL CLUBS WISHING TO CONTINUE IN OR TO JOIN THE ESSEX METROPOLITAN BB LEAGUE TO HAVE REPRESENTATION AT THE AGM

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Last Update 14th April

Erkenwald 90 Cardinals 69 (Report from Erks)

Erkenwald ventured to Waltham Abbey on a sunny Sunday afternoon looking to secure the Essex Metropolitan Finals to go along with the League honours. They faced thier old rivals Cardinals looking to avenge last seasons playoff defeat. The Erks were at full strength and started the game strong behind Sharp shooter Mark Denchfield draining a 3 as well as Vintage Pete and point guard Keith Pringle getting on the score sheet early to rack up a 10 point lead to start the game. Cardinals then began to get into the occasion with some strong play from young forward Jon Hinds and vetran Marvin Willson as well as their point guard Molner who hit back to back 3 pointers to bring them back within 2.

Second quarter saw Cardinals amp up the intensity and desire which Erks matched and saw each team trade points with Erks holding onto their lead throughout the half. Strong play from Piotr Prazych who had encountered some foul trouble, a tough baseline shot from Atkinson and 5 points from Robin French ensured Erks went into the half holding onto a 3 point lead. Key to the lead was both big defensive contributions from Dave Churches and Jon Lee who also were controlling the boards while Keith Pringle was keeping the offence well oiled even though he was struggling with grip on the slippery court. A new pair of Jordan V's were placed on order shortly after.

The third quarter began with Coach McCusker asking for more effort in recognising who is the Cardinals key scorers and ensuring they were to be kept as quiet as possible. It started well as Denchfield hit back to back 3 pointers but Cardinal's Seal, Molner and Hinds stepped up to give Cardinals there first lead of the game at 52-48 and caused Coach McCusker to call a time out to address the problems these players were causing as well as getting the Erks offence going. Up stepped Pringle and Prazych who had the Erks next 15 points to keep the game tied and the momentum in the balance. All seemed well until Cardinals seemed to then gain momentum with a rare technical foul on Denchfield as well as some fast break points off of turnovers had Erks needing to dig deep to ensure the game didn't get to far out of hand. Cardinals were finding success through Molner and him creating easy opportunities for his team mates Willson, Hinds and Gooden (no relations to NBA's Drew Gooden) which gave themselves an 8 point advantage.

The fourth quarter saw coach McCusker draw up a defensive masterpiece of a box and 1 defence with the energetic Robin French assigned to shadow Molner to keep the ball out of his hands. This worked as well as hoped as the Erks seemed to gain control and momentum at the key point where the game was ultimatly going to be decided.

With Jon Lee and Churches adding their presence inside and Pringle and Denchfield outside the Cardinals offence started to slow down. Along came the pivotal moment when Denchfield grabbing an offensive rebound from a wayward Prazych shot was fouled on the play to gain 2 free throws. Seal to his amazment protested and was duely given a technical foul for his efforts. This along with his frustrations at getting torched by his opposite numer then seemed to lose his marbles and his jersey as he stomped around the court continuing to swear and protest his frustration and apparant innocence. This then led to another technical giving Denchfield 6 free throws in a row which he duely dispatched cooly taking his tally to 29 and giving Erkenwald an 8 point gap and possession which resulted in Robin French hitting one of his two 3 pointers of the game.

The Cardinals, with time running out on their trophyless season, became desperate in their offence which then lead to easy scores for Denchfield, Pringle, Prazych and Overare. The lead ballooned to 18 points with Pringle adding 3 more to his game total of 16 to add salt to the wound. Each player contributed to the win and League success which saw Erkenwald crowned Essex Metropolitan League and Playoff Champions for 2010.

Scorers: Erks

DENCHFIELD - 31, PRAZYCH - 27, PRINGLE - 16, FRENCH - 8, CHURCHES - 4, LEE - 2, ATKINSON - 2, McCUSKER, OVERARE

Scorers: Cardinals

MOLNER - 18, WILLSON - 15, SEALE - 14, HINDS - 10, GOODEN - 8, LEE - 2, OKWEI-NORTEY - 2, GABRIEL, ANDREW, ORELLO, DUPUIS

********************** Report from EMBL~**********************

Last Update 13th April

Erks 90 Cardinals 69

The tradition in the EMBL over the last few seasons is that the EMBL league champions have gone on to win the play off final. Last year Cardinals had the misfortune to be the team that finished 2nd in the league and play offs.

With this year league champions Erks playing second place Cardinals, Cardinals were determined to break this tradition.

With both teams turning up over an hour early you could feel the tension in the air .When the warm ups started both team seemed ready and pump up.

Erks hit the first shot of the game with a fine 3 pointer from M.Denchfield. Both teams fought under the basket and with 9 fouls in the first quarter you felt this was going to be a physical game. M.Denchfild hit one more three, but not to be out done cardinals A .Moulan also hit two threes to keep the score at 22-17 to Erks as the first quarter ended.

The second quarter was end to end with both teams fighting for every rebound and wanting every call in their favour.

P. Prazych of Erks scored 6 points in a row,(two from the line) Cardinals realised they needed to stop him at all costs.

K. Seal of Cardinals was having his own battle with the back boards as it took him three attempts to put the ball in the ring.

With M.Molan (last year’s playoffs top scorer) hitting yet another three Cardinals closed the gap and Erks went in at half time 38-35 up. Both teams came out with the same intensity as at the start of the game and the cardinal’s fans made all the noise they could to act as a sixth man.

Cardinals responded with M.Willson coming to life and hitting 4 free throws in a row plus 4 other points.

Even though, on the court himself an inspired double sub by Erks Declan seemed to save the quarter.

Prazych & Denchfield now found their range and both hit two threes to keep cardinals from pulling away, as the buzzer went the score was level at 60-60.

This was it the moment that Cardinals could break the cycle of the EMBL and finally be the bride instead of the bridesmaid.

Erks came out of the traps the quickest and Prazych hit a layup and then two three pointers to gain an 8 point lead in under three minutes with no response from the Cardinals.

Erks seemed to think that their job was over and they had the play offs all sealed up.

Coach Henderson time out must have re inflamed the cardinals, as J Hinds hit two points from the line and K Seal then pulled off a three pointer. Erks looked stunned.

Captain C.Gooden then hit a two to pull the game back to 68-67 Erks.

With less than three minutes left Declan called his time out and whatever he said must have made the difference.

Denchfield came straight on a hit a two pointer. Cardinals then lost precession to a regenerated Erks defence. K.Pringle drove to the hole, only to be failed. He coolly made both his shots and gave Erks a 5 point lead.

Erks now seemed to drive in on the basket at every opportunity and it paid off when a foul was called on a Cardinals player. To the disgust of Mr Seal who walked the court with the ball in hand and muttering something to the match referees. He received a technical foul and realising it was his fifth decided he had had enough and threw his shirt down on the court; he then received a second technical foul for this. M.Denchfield stepped up to the line to take six free throws; he proceeded to make all six of them. Erks were given possession and R.French hit a three pointer to make it a 9 point play. Cardinals didn’t recover from this and only made one more basket to finish with 69 points.

Erks Prazych determined to be the play off top scorer hit three more points with French & Pringle both hitting three pointers for fun. Erks were crowned winners with a 90-69 victory.

Both teams received their EMBL league and play off trophies for the 2009/2010 season.

Chris Mark of Lakers also received his EMBL league top scorer trophy to the envy of some Erks & cardinals players.

Now Erks have got back both their EMBL crowns.

Somewhere out there in the stars lurking in the Forest; there must be a team who will want to take them on next season.

Come on you Tigers, Brentwood Fire and Lakers this could be your season.

Cardinals said they would be back!

If you are interested in entering a team for next season or looking to join a team please e mail info@essexmetropolitanbasketballleague.co.uk

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Last Update 11th April

Erkenwald 90 cardinals 69

Well done to Erkenwald who today beat cardinals 90-69 to win the EMBL play offs.

EMBL Play off top scorer P.Prazych of Erks.

A full report will follow in the next few days.

*********************THE EMBL PLAY OFF FINAL DATE IS*******************

SUNDAY 11TH APRIL AT WALTHAM ABBEY SPORTS CENTER..

TIPP OFF 1PM

ERKS V CARDINALS

All are welcome.

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Last Update 6th April

Cardinals 81 Brentwood Fire 57

Cardinals tonight booked there place in the EMBL Play off Final for the second year in succession.

The six man team of Brentwood Fire put up a good fight but Cardinal were just two strong in the end.

Cardinals who finished second in the League will now Play EMBL Champions Erks on Sunday 11th April at WALTHAM ABBEY SPORTS CENTER TIPP OFF 1PM.

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Erks 91 Lakers 52 (Written by Erks)

On Tuesday Night Erks took on the WALTHAM ABBEY Lakers which proved to be a scrappy game as always and I dont mean Scrappy as in Scrappy Doo!.....

The Erks started with the usual Coach McCusker speech about how Erks should play simple basketball, not get involved in that "load of old B*ll*cks scrappy game" that the Lakers play but play to our advantages (i.e. inside game and shooting) however Erks went out in the first quarter and ignored all of this!!!

Denchfield started the game off with a quick trey followed by Pistol Pete dropping his fancy footwork inside for the bucket. After this the game would be back and fourth but with the Lakers some how winning every offensive rebound while Church, Pringle and Pete were standing under the basket having a chat about who would score Erks next basket.

But before the first quarter was out, French decided to take the game into his own hands with a few strong rebounds (despite being the Erk's smallest player on the floor) and also scoring two lay ups to get himself started on the score sheet. The first quarter ended Erks 17 - Lakers 10.

The second quarter started again with a Coach McCusker speech about how Lakers were winning every offensive rebound and how Erks were involved in that load of old B*ll*cks and that if Erks continued like this, instead of cruising to the Playoff Finals, Erks would be down to the wire and possibly missing out on the Essex Met Playoffs.

With this clearly going in one ear and out the other, the Erks continued that load of B*ll*cks with not rebounding, taking bad shots and bad defence. allowing the Lakers to get them selves back into the game. It took Coach McCusker to step on the floor and take charge on the game, he showed Church, J-Lee and Pistol Pete how to rebound with a few strong offensive and defensive rebounds. He then rolled back approximately 30 years to show Pringle how to "Slice The Lakers Defence, Like A Hot Knife Through Butter" with scoring a lay up through three dazzled Lakers players.

Denchfield was taken out of the game as for the first time in the season not getting into double figures which made way for French to come back into the game who hit a quick three and also Pistol Pete scored inside for a couple of easy baskets to close out the second quarter. The second quarter finished with Erks scoring 22 - Lakers 18.

Now Coach McCusker was quite annoyed at the fact Erks were still only 11 points ahead of Lakers and wanted more!..... He stressed for the Erk's to rebound and make some good shots.

The third quarter started quite quickly with Pringle making his way early into the paint for a hard lay up that he clearly got punched and close lined on but with no foul as the female ref took a shinning to him and wanted to see just how strong he was!!

Erk's number 8 Martin Overare was also on the floor and for some unknown reason can not make the simplest of wide open lay up's or jump shot's, but put in a a pump fake, spin and round the world twist he can make every basket. Overare went on to perform four of these Circus Harlem Globetrotter Lay Up's in the third quarter (for the bench of Erks it was quite enjoyable but puzzling to watch as he missed the easiest lay up in the world prior to these). The Erks finally listened to Coach McCusker and saw out the third quarter with Erks scoring 27 and the Lakers only scoring 3 points in that quarter.

The fourth quarter started with some more of that load of old B*ll*cks in the first opening minutes... But as through out the game it took Coach McCusker who got a strong offensive rebound and put back and one more lay up. Also more of Overare's circus act lay up's and some sharp shooting from French behind the arch to close out the game for Erk's to get their well deserved spot in the Essex Metropolitan Playoff Final on Sunday 11th April, tip off 13:00 at Waltham Abbey.

The game ended Erks 91 - Lakers 52

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Last Update 31ST March

ERKS MAKE THE EMBL PLAY OFF FINAL (11th APRIL 1PM TIPP OFF)

ERKS 91 LAKERS 52 (REPORT TO FOLLOW)

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The top ten league scorers are.........

Position	Player Name	Team	Total Points Scored	Games Played
1	C.MARK	LAKERS	220	10
2	K.SEAL	CARDINALS	176	10
3	MONTRICHARD	ERKS	166	10
4	A.SAKUROVAS	TIGERS	164	10
5	PENNOCK	FOREST	131	10
6	M.DRENHFIELD	ERKS	127	10
7	Z.BALIVAS	TIGERS	124	10
8	J.HINDS	CARDINALS	111	10
9	A.Molana	CARDINALS	99	10
10	V.GOLD	LAKERS	97	10

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EMBL PLAY OFFS

THE LINE UP FOR THE EMBL PLAY OFFS IS NOW COMPLEATE.

SF1 Tue 30th March ERKS vs LAKERS

SF2 Tue 6th April CARDINALS vs BRENTWOOD FIRE

EMBL FINAL Sun 11th April SF 1 Winner vs SF 2 Winner

THE EMBL PLAY OFF FINAL DATE IS SET FOR SUNDAY 11TH APRIL AT WALTHAM ABBEY SPORTS CENTER TIPP OFF 1PM

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------------Erks win the EMBL------------

Erks 113 Forest 50

Erks went into their last Essex Met league game, knowing that a win would confirm them as Champions...

Despite going into the game without a single recognised ball-handler (both Scarlet and Polish Pete having a night in), the Erks, for once did not make hard work of the game, even though there were some pretty shoddy individual performances...

Erks began, as normal, in a man-to-man defence - instantly throwing themselves into a state of confusion with the Forest No 8, as she isn't a man. Whether this was pure sexism on the part of the Erks team, assuming that as she is a girl she can't play or more likely, not wanting to be seen as a leering sexual predator, she opened the scoring unmarked, despite Churches attempts to get his less than agile frame closer, to use his 16 inch height advantage. Once realising that Churches was the only player not marking anyone, he promptly picked up No 8, only to have it shot back in his face to leave her two from two within the first few minutes.

Erks rallied to help Churches and with some steady offences and their greater size advantage showing in defense, it gave them a first quarter lead of 31-12.

It wasn't all plain sailing in the second quarter as stand-in guard French, was consistently stripped by the Forest No 9. This will no doubt have dented the sales of his dvds he's been trying to flog via his Facebook page - which led the rest of the Erks to think that the recent film clips have been severely edited or that it may have even been a stand-in. Either way, he still can't spin two balls in one hand.

Erks finished the half 60-28 with all players registering on the scoresheet. Notably Robin, who was having trouble keeping up with the skill and speed of the opponents and managed to pick up three fouls. Old Lee 'Twinkle Toes" Atkinson was turning back the clock and was consistently shooting from 15 ft - even managing at one point to shoot from 16.5 ft, but at such an angle that he still managed to release the ball from 15 ft. However, he was shown up by the slowest of head fakes and this from 45 ft. It should also be pointed out that Jonny Lee was 100% from the free-throw (that's baskets actually scored), showing that cometh the time, cometh the man and in crunch times he can still be relied upon.

Erks usual third quarter malaise continued, with them edging it 22-21. No 9 was shooting 3s in French's face, Churches was getting turned inside out in the paint and No 88 (when he remembered to stay in the court) was having a field day with Elvis.

A strong finish by the Erks, ended offensively with Declan and Martin taking it in turns to goal hang and defensively with Jonny Lee, showing no further pity for his opponents, blocking about 5 shots in the last 3 minutes. The Erks with a 31-11 final quarter, giving a final score of 113-50.

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Last Update 13th March

League News

The EMBL today announced that Gintaras have left the EMBL.

The league table will be adjusted and any points or baskets accumulated against Gintaras will not count.

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Last Update March 5th

Erks 94 Eastbury Tigers 63

On the 2nd March Erks went against their oldest rivals. Oldest being average age about 57 even including Lithuania's Gintara's young rejects.

Erks started with Pete, Lee A, J-Lee, Pringle and of course French in the first quarter. The Erks were first to hit the score board with a nice rotation of passing to find French out on the wing for a nice trey. But the Tigers were also hungry to get on the score board and came back with a couple of baskets and being sent to the three throw line early on.

Then came the turn of Pete who seemed to score with every touch of the ball on a run of 8 points within a couple of minutes. Drenchfield then enter the game and hit a couple of ok trey's nothing special as it wasn't off the dribble or fading away into the corner.

The Erks see out the first quarter up 26 - 13.

The Second Quarter see Drenchfield take off with another spurt of ok treys (5 in fact) in a row, with Tigers number 2 only answering back with a couple of easy through the lane lay up's. French then returned on to the floor where he was running the base line trying to loose the box and 1 defence Tigers has put on him. He was found open in the corner to let off a nice shot only to just rim out but being fouled in the process. He headed to the line and made 2 out of 3 free throws.

The second quarter was not a great show of talent for Erks as they only scored 11 to Tigers 25 in this period.

The 3rd quarter started with probably it's strongest team out Atkinson, J-Lee, Chims, McCusker and of course French. French was now running the point and with a few nice passes and a screen from Chims French was found at the top to hit an off the dribble Trey. Elvis, a new addition to the Erks in the last few games, came in and contributed a few inside jump shots and rebounds. French was also crashing the boards picking up a few rebounds. But also still Tigers number 2 was going to the bucket at will.

Pringle, Pete, Drenchfield all returned into the game all contributing points with a couple of treys from Drenchfield, Pringle making his way to the line and Pete with some fancy footwork to get him to the bucket. But still the Tigers were hungry for a win as the 3rd Quarter finished with Erks only scoring 19 - to Tigers 14.

A few hard words from Coach McCusker stated that the tigers were only one basket away from being within 6 points to Erks. At the shock of this the Erks went out in the 4th Quarter to close the game out.

A few more nice inside moves from Pete and big rebound from J-Lee see the points go up on the score board. But still Tigers number 2 was going to the bucket with ease. Cant think who was marking him, can you Drenchfield?.......

French entered back in the game half way through the quarter who came in and hit a succession of nice treys and also a couple of passes to Drenchfield who hit a 3 or two.

Also Atkinson and McCusker were on the floor. Atkinson pulled the trigger on a nice jump shot deep in the corner to get on the score sheet and also McCusker with a give go pass found his way to the bucket to also add to the score sheet.

The Erks managed to close out the game, but could of turned out to be a major upset if the Erks had played how they did in the 2nd & 3rd Quarter with Tigers taking the Win.

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Last Update 14th JAN

Stars pull out of the EMBL.

The EMBL is sad to announce that Stars will not be able to complete the remainde of this season.

The league table will be adjusted and any games played against Stars will not count.

We hope to see Stars back in the EMBL next season.

........................................................................

Last Update 2ND JAN

AND SO WE BEGIN 2010 EMBL

..............................................................

Last Update 20TH Dec

HAPPY CHRISTMAS FROM THE EMBL

GO TO THE RESULTS PAGE TO VIEW THE LEAGUES TOP TEN SCORERS.

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Last Update 4TH Dec

Forest 73 Erks 131

Erks maintained their unbeaten start to the season yesterday with a visit to a new look Forest team.

Erks could not afford the humiliation of another Forest defeat so Jonny Lee and Richard Williams were dropped (previously losers at Forest). Lee Atkinson (another previous loser at Forest) kept his place but only on the strict understanding that he could increase the average age of the Erks by 48 years accordingly.

The new look Forest team included thirteen players, five of whom have obviously been lifting weights in the gym and the team even included a young lady for whom Robin and Vince argued all night over who should mark her!

Vince was looking to exceed his previous fifty point haul at fellow league minnows (Galleon) and this was done with considerable aplomb as he racked up 53 points, including at least ten dunks, twenty five rebounds, six turnovers, no assists and no passes.

Even Robin managed four passes throughout the game - although these were primarily after he had dribbled in to the corner, got himself stuck and despite wanting to shoot off balance whilst going out of bounds, had no alternative but to pass to one of his fellow team players.

In the end, Erks ran out comfortable winners with all six players making the score sheet - including Minsak. Unfortunately for him, his girlfriend was not there to witness the event so the likelihood of a post match celebration with her was significantly reduced!

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Last Updates 10TH NOV

Erks 74 Brentwood Fire 56

The Erks started well enough with Denchfield, the Trinidadian and Scarlet finding the bucket early. The highlight of the quarter was to watch Frenchie turn the ball over several times and to shoot four air balls from the 3 point line all in the space of two minutes. This continued throughout the game. A post game conference with Frenchie revealed that he had recently been attacked by an unknown person and suffered bruising to his ribs. This of course led to him playing through the game in excruciating pain and his nightmare performance can only be attributed to recent traumatic events. The police have since circulated a wanted poster for Frenchie's attacker only known as 'Pinocchio'!!

Continuing with the game, Brentwood Fire was able to penetrate the Erks Defence and the first quarter remained a close affair with the Erks up by two, 15-13.

Coach Declan decided to switch the Defence to a zone. Yet another strategic implementation from Coach (aka Pat Riley) served the Erks very well. The Erks were able to pull away and by the end of the second quarter led by15 points. Denchfield once again hit two timely treys. Garbage and Scarlet added a pair. The Erks were truly in command of the game.

The second half was very much a one sided affair. Coach Declan made a very pleasing drive to the bucket and on another occasion caught a near enough impossible pass from Denchfield to score under the bucket. Overare posted his man up on the block and hit a turn around shot of the backboard. Last, but not least, the cornerstone of the the Erks team, 'hitman Lee' continued with his good performances by rebounding and setting solid screens not to mention an 'and 1' move made to the bucket. Erks never looked back once they had established a 20 point lead and ran out clear winners with the score 74-56.

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Last Updates

Tigers 63 - Erks 102

Erks rolled to a third straight Essex Met victory, topping the 100 point mark for the first time this season as Trinidadian Vince Montrichard laughed in the face of Mark Denchfield's claim that he would take down the Essex Met scoring title, by scoring 52 points including an alley oop, 2 tip jams and 4 dunks including 1 coast to coast behind the back move on former Gintaras and London Towers guard Aivaras Sakurovas.

Martin Overare added 18 points and Robin French chipped in with 16 on 34 shots as all 7 Erks players got on the scoresheet. For Tigers, Sakurovas lead the way with 19 points and Tsaliunas hit 12 before fouling out as the Tigers, strengthened by some new blood this season, kept the scoreboard ticking over but couldn't stop the Erks at the other end.

The Trinidadian's highlight play was converting an alley-oop from a perfectly thrown Robin French pass, and Vince commented that it was good to finally play with a point guard who knew how to deliver an alley-oop unlike that old guy Keith who usually plays. The degree of difficulty was highlighted in the second half, when Declan McCusker's first career alley-oop attempt missed the intended target by about 5 feet. Although it could have been a shot.

In McCusker's defense, since in the Erks NBL days the only people who could dunk were Ed Bailey in the warm up line and Dave Churches in a 9 foot ring at Stoke, it wasn't a play that he'd had cause to practise much.

Martin Overare also showed that whilst Pete may be in a league of his own when it comes to discussions about prog-rock albums, he doesn't have a monopoly on post moves. Although as ever Martin was 6 for 7 on double pump spin in mid-air moves and 1 for 6 on open lay ups.

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Last Updates 15/010/09

Cardinals 54 Erks 79

Erks hit away form again with their 2nd straight win of the season at Cardinals. Cardinals were not at full strength with a key number of players missing and Erks took full advantage by dominating the first 3 quarters - holding Cardinals to just 33 points until the 4th quarter.

Erks had 4 players in double figures with Pete leading all scorers with 20. New addition from Trinidad Vince Montrichard continued to show his potential with another solid performance and 17 points and even Garbage Time Dave Churches chipped in with 16!!

Not all Erks got on the scoresheet with Declan & Jonny Lee both going 0 for 1 each. However, with Mark, Pete, Vince and Garbage Time Dave Churches hogging the ball for 98.4% of all Erks' possessions, it would appear shots for any other Erks this season could be somewhat limited..

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Last Updates 9/10/09

Erks off to flyer

Erks got their season off in winning ways at Lakers in the EMBL on Friday. Despite most Erks not being able to find the venue on time due to roadworks and confusing diversion signs, Erks took control in the first quarter and never looked back.

New Trinidad man, Vince Demontrincind made an impressive Erks debut and, after shooting 3 for 15 in the first quarter, Vince eventually found his rhythm to lead all scorers with 24, including 5 dunks!!

Mark & Robin hit from the outside and all 8 Erks got on the scoreboard as Erks ran out comfortable winners.

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Last Updates 26/9/09

The EMBL season opened last night.

The ENBL season started last night with Lakers V Tigers. After Tigers fought there way through the diversions in Waltham Abbey and found Lakers new court.

The game was played in the friendly sprit that the EMBL is renowned for.

Lakers ran out winners and with a bar at the court the game was over analysed for hours afterwards.

Lakers are pleased to announce open trianing session starting on September 11th 2009 8pm until 9:30pm at Waltham Abbey Sport Centre, Broomstickhall Road, Waltham Abbey, Essex EN9 1LF - £3.00 to non Lakers members and aged 16yrs plus.

The teams registered to play and the days they play this coming season are.

Lakers - Friday

Csrdinals - Tuesday

Eastbury Tigers - Thursday

Stars - Sunday am

Brentwood Fire - Sunday pm

Erkenwald - Tuesday

Ginataras - Tuesday Forest - Thursday

PLEASE GO TO THE FIXTURE PAGE TO VIEW THE FIXTURS FOR THE FORTHCOMONG SEASON.

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Last Updates 4/09/09

with only three weeks till the EMBL league starts all teams are reminded that players should be registered with Alan asap.

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Last Updates 30/07/09

The teams currently registered to play and the days they play this coming season are.

Lakers - Friday

Csrdinals - Tuesday

Eastbury Tigers - Thursday

Stars - Sunday am

Brentwood Fire - Sunday pm

Erkenwald - Tuesday

Ginataras - Tuesday (registration to be confirmed)

Forest - Thursday

PLEASE GO TO THE FIXTURE PAGE TO VIEW THE FIXTURS FOR THE FORTHCOMONG SEASON.

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Last Updates 02/07/09

EMBL Fixtures are now on the website to view.

Cardinals will now play on Tuesday Nights.

________________________________________________________________________

Last Updates 13/06/09

The AGM has now taken place. The new constitution is now available on the website for you all to read and digest. The fixtures will be available shortly. If there are any new teams who wish to join the league for the 09/10 season, please email me at wayneratford@hotmail.co.uk by 30th June 2009.

The teams currently registered to play and the days they play this coming season are:

Lakers - To Be Confirmed

Csrdinals - Thursday

Eastbury Tigers - Thursday

Stars - Sunday am

Brentwood Fire - Sunday pm

Erkenwald - Friday

Ginataras - Tuesday (registration to be confirmed)

Forest - Thursday

Lakers will be announcing open training sessions in the next week and the dates will be posted on this site. Should anyone require any urther information then please do not hesitate to contact me.

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EMBL AGM 9th JUNE 2009

Last Updates: 20/03/2009

The Essex Metropolitan Basketball League

Gintaras 82 v Cardinals 74 18 Th April 2009

With Gintaras already having won the EMBL league and cardinals finishing 2nd in the league you knew it was going to be a close run game.

As the final was being played on a Sunday there was a great family atmosphere with children from both sides in fine voice throughout the game and with the help of the Gintaras cheerleader’s entertainment was also present. AS both sides warmed up and referees and table officials in place the game was started dead on 12 o’clock. The first quater was a close run thing and the first three pointer of the game will go down to cardinals no 9 A,Molna. Gintaras not to be out done hit two three pointers and run out with a 17/15 lead.

Gintaras 17 Cardinals 15

The second quarter saw cardinals step up a gear and win numerous boards. They moved the ball around the key and made Gintaras work hard to get a sniff of the ball. M, Defoe & A.Molna lead the Cardinals charge and A. Molna hit another three in this quarter.

Gintaras captain Skaburskis hit two three pointers and tried to gee up his team, but by the end cardinals had opened up an 8 point lead and went in at half time 37/29 up.

Gintaras 29 (12) Cardinals 37 (22)

The third quarter saw Gintaras come out and press Cardinals who turned over the ball and allowed Gintaras no 7 Darius to score three two pointers and a three pointer before Cardinals scored a basket. Cardinals no 5 K.seal shocked by this then went into the basket scored twice in a row and hit his free-throw shot. Cardinals A.Molan not to be out done by his team mate hit two two pointers and yet another three pointer.

Gintaras had closed the gap to five points by the end of the third quarter.

Gintaras 49(20) cardinals 54(17)

Gintaras came out the stronger after the break and hit 6 points before Cardinals scored.

Captain skaburskis yet again leading the charge and hitting two three pointers in a row.

With Gintaras now level, cardinals new someone had to step up their game. Gintaras pulled four points clear before cardinals A.Molna hit three threes but Gintaras were in no mode to give up the chance of being the EMBL Double champions and with Gintaras being sent to the line after every foul no 15 Builydas hit all of his shots as did Darius, Pakamanis and Sakurovas .

Gintaras held the ball and played out the final few seconds and ended up the EMBL Play Off winners.

The final score

Gintaras 82 (33) Cardinals 74 (20)

Both sides new that they had played there part in an epic Play off Final.

Gintaras in only their third season in the EMBL had completed what is becoming a trend over the last few seasons and were presented with both the EMBL League Trophy and the EMBL Play off Trophy.

League top scores and runners up were also presented their trophies and M Denchfield (ERKS) will be forever on the roll of honour page as the League top scorer and M. Molan (CARDINALS) as the play off top scorer.

As the 2008 /2009 seasons ends we at the EMBL congratulate all teams that have participated in the League and hope to see you all in the 2009 /2010 season.

ANY NEW TEAM THAT WISHE TO TAKE PART IN THE 2009/2010 MUST EMAIL US AT.. info@essexmetropolitanbasketballleague.co.uk

BEFOUR OUR AGM THAT IS SECULED FOR TUESDAY 9TH JUNE 2009