The round 10 double header between the Hills Raiders and Cockburn Cougars resulted in a win for both of Cockburn’s teams, with the final men’s game coming down to a one-point difference.

The Hills Raiders open men’s team lost 88-89 during a contest that tested nerves to the final seconds.

Though the Cockburn Cougars ended the first and second quarters in the lead, by the end of the third, the Hills men’s team were able to pull ahead by two points and lead 71-69.

The final quarter opening saw back-to-back scoring from the Hills Raiders, with the Cougars turning the tide after free-throw scores and a two-pointer.

Cougars’ player Jonah Palelei tied up the score at 79-79 before Malik Powell pulled the team ahead at 79-81.

The Hills Raiders began sinking back-to-back points to bring the difference from 80-86 to 86-86 and maintained the hair’s breadth difference all the way to the final point from the Cockburn Cougars.

Tyson Kelly and Ethan Croot shared top billing with 21 points apiece, both turning up big in crunch time.

Troy Kelly chipped in 14, while Charlie Trigwell and William Burbidge sparked pivotal runs.

The Hills Raiders open women’s team opened the basketball showdown tipping off at 6pm, led by captain Mackenzie Thomas.

The night also marked Emily Thomas-Loehn’s 100th WABL game, with the player scoring a team-high 16 points and sinking crucial free throws under pressure.

Tahlia Kelly added 15 points, including a triple that brought the crowd to their feet, and late contributions from Annabelle Pramono and Ella Heary.

The Cockburn Cougars were able to secure a dominant win on the night with a 53-99 final score.

Hills Raiders officer Shaun Bunting said the support for the community’s team was good with the Hills Raiders community coming out in force to defend the hill.

“Though both Raiders open teams fell to the visiting Cockburn Cougars, the atmosphere was electric,” he said.

“Despite the result, the unity on the floor and the energy in the stands reflected a team and a community rising together.

“It was a night that reminded everyone why we defend the hill, not just for the scoreboard, but for the spirit, the milestones, and the mateship that makes Raiders basketball something special.

“Onward and upward, together.”