Blanchfield steps up in pre-season hit-out

The Perth Wildcats were defeated 96-90 in a behind-closed-doors practice game against the Brisbane Bullets this afternoon.

It’s the first of two hit-out between the two sides this week, with the Wildcats on the road for the first time since last season’s Grand Final series.

The game, played at the Gold Coast Sports and Leisure Centre, was closely contested throughout, with Todd Blanchfield top scoring for the visitors with 19 points

“It was definitely his most productive game with us,” said Wildcats assistant coach Jacob Chance.

“He was aggressive and defensively he was pretty solid too, so we’re pleased to see that from him.”

Chance said the game was a good opportunity to trial different combinations on the floor.

“We’re trying to play a high tempo and mix it up out there. We gave a couple of the young guys a good crack. We’re looking to see who is working together the best on the floor,” he said.

“We scored 90 points today, which is often enough to win a game, but we can’t give up 96, so we need to make sure we aren’t giving up easy points. That will be a focus for Friday’s game.”

John Mooney continued his solid pre-season with 18 points, while the starting back court combination of Bryce Cotton and Mitch Norton combined for 25.

The Wildcats and Bullets face off again on Friday.