The game reached a tense ending – particularly in the last four minutes when the scores were even. 

In what was a physical affair, it was evident that both teams were not willing to back down – either when the ball went into the air or when there was a loose ball on the ground.

Players from both teams fought hard to get their hands on the ball, particularly in the final stages. 

As the clocked ticked down the minutes, the game was still very much in the balance – even when there was less than a minute go.

However, the Redbacks were awarded two free throws in the dying seconds. 

Some clutch shooting by Jason Cameron ensured the Redbacks secured their fifth win of the season and more importantly a spot in the Country Basketball League finals series. 

Coach Marcus Jenkins said he was happy his team secured the win in trying circumstances. 

“It was a hard game and we knew they were going to come out tough,” he said.

“We pride ourselves on being physical but sometimes we struggle when teams come back at us twice as hard.

“But the main thing is we got the win and that was our main achievement this week to get the win.” 

The Redbacks will play finals after the Country Basketball League split the competition into two pools due to a large number of teams. 

In the Redbacks pool they had to play against Hamilton, Horsham, Mt Gambier, Portland and Warrnambool in the regular season. 

In the other pool there were Bacchus Marsh, Colac, Geelong and Bellarine. The top four teams from each pool play finals.

Jenkins said making finals was a reward for all the hard work his players put in to the season.

“The season is not over,” he said. 

“I am probably more excited for the boys after all the hard work they have had to do during the year so far.” 

The Redbacks play Bellarine Storm at the Bellarine Sports Centre on Friday at 7pm.