Hawks Soar Past Wildcats in 82-72 Victory

The Ringwood Hawks defeated the Eltham Wildcats 82-72 on Saturday at Montmorency Secondary College, extending their lead in the second half to secure a solid win. Jonathan Lawton led Ringwood's efficient offense with 22 points on 53 percent shooting, including four triples from beyond the arc. The Hawks shot an impressive 52 percent from the field compared to Eltham's 38 percent, with Tom Carroll recording a double-double (17 points, 11 boards). Ringwood dominated the defensive glass with a 37-27 advantage and better protected the rock with just seven steals allowed to Eltham's 15. Despite the loss, Eltham's Sam Short put up 16 points and secured a double-double with 10 rebounds while adding five steals and three blocks. The Wildcats kept it close by dominating the offensive glass (13-3) and pushing the pace with 10 fast break points. Gabe Hadley matched Short's 16 points, while Mitchell McCarron added 15 points with three triples. **RINGWOOD HAWKS 82 (Jonathan Lawton 22, Tom Carroll 17, Tanner Krebs 16).** **ELTHAM WILDCATS 72 (Sam Short 16, Gabe Hadley 16, Mitchell McCarron 15).** #NBL1East #HoopsFever