The Hawks went into the clash averaging more than 98 points on their home floor but United kept them to just 73 points – their second lowest total of the season.

Demopolous said defence has taken a little longer to develop but is starting the click at the right time.

“Defence is a team skill,” Demopoulos said.

“Many many times it takes longer than the defence to arrive at a certain point than it does the offence, particularly when you have a boat-load full of really good offensive players.

“This league is a very physical league particularly in the paint and every day is another step taken in the direction of getting your team to play to the fullest potential that they have.

“Where that takes us remains to be seen but they’re squeezing the most out every moment they have.”