1/10/02 - Wolves open up in style

University College Worcester was full for the first competitive game of the season against National Conference side Oxford.

Wolves were without one of their key players from last year, Rhys Hocking, but included five new signings.

From the start they took the game to the visitors, Colin Chiverton making some great individual moves to basket.

Joshua Cooprider and Rick Solvason shot well in the early stages and were supported by Paul Gerald who made an immediate impact following his introduction with two consecutive baskets.

At the end of the first quarter the home side led 26-21.

In the second quarter the visitors began to find their range offensively with Baker and Alexander creating some excellent shooting chances.

Colin Rhooms was brought into the game by Wolves coach Jimmy Smith and despite his instant contribution with some fine shooting Devils led 54-49 at half-time.

The second half saw Wolves send out a more alert formation. Gerald brought them to life at both ends of the court with excellent defensive play and some strong offensive contributions.

Chiverton continued to create chances and Oxford's defence struggled to cope with the powerful forward and continually fouled him, enabling Chiverton to punish the visitors with shots from the foul line. Going into the final quarter the Wolves held a narrow 84-80 lead.

Cooprider, previously subdued, played a key role in guiding Wolves home. The American combined well with Solvason and Ben Livingston to control the game, while Gerald worked tirelessly in defence to frustrate Oxford.

The crowd played a massive part in cheering their team home and must take a lot of credit for the result.

Game coach Smith said afterwards: "At times we played well, but for long periods of the game we struggled to maintain any consistency.

"To beat a team like Oxford and not play well has got to be encouraging."

Top scorers: Chiverton 29, Solvason 16, Cooprider 14.