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Breaker's CJ Bruton - Source: Photosport -
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The Breakers are anticipating a typically physical clash with the ANBL table topping Perth Wildcats at the North Shore Events Centre on Thursday night.
Following on from their last second loss to the Wollongong Hawks last week, the Breakers have worked hard this week and are determined to bring a steely resolve to the game from the opening whistle.
The Wildcats are renowned for their physical style of game, one that often delivers a result if the opposition end up going 'toe to toe'.
Breakers coach Andrej Lemanis is aware of that and the intense rivalry that has built up between the two clubs, suggesting the two are not coincidental.
"That rivalry means Thursday is going to be a fiery encounter, one the fans will want to watch which is great. It has developed over the years largely down to the style of play that Perth brings to any game; they play a physical game and assert themselves on the opposition. If you allow them to do it they will usually win, the key is to stop them and stay in the game.
"We need to bring an aggressive mindset within the laws of the game and not allow them to dictate terms. If we are on the back foot that will probably mean they are winning the game. We need to stamp our own style on the game and make sure we are playing a style of basketball that suits us and allows us to compete on Thursday night."
Lemanis is also aware of the threat that former Breaker Shawn Redhage poses to his team on Thursday night.
"Redhage is obviously their leading scorer and he certainly plays with a lot of energy and throws people out of his way as he crashes the boards. We need to match that energy and commitment, if we can do that we are part way to nullifying one of their strengths."
For the Breakers the news this week is that back up centre Alex Pledger will suit up and be available from the bench, something Lemanis has not had the luxury of for some weeks now.
The 7 foot Tall Black has trained this week with a knee brace and looks likely to provide some valuable minutes in support of Rick Rickert as the Breakers look to compete on the boards.
