United on the cusp of form turnaround

While the Hawks are 1-5, so-called heavyweights Melbourne United have won just once in four games.

There was a thought that Melbourne would get on a roll after a convincing round two win over New Zealand.

But the team tipped by many pundits to be the greatest threat to title favourites Perth might’ve been sent back to the drawing board with Saturday night’s 11-point road loss to Townsville.

Cairns coach Aaron Fearne is convinced it’s only a matter of time before Melbourne hit their straps.

‘‘In my opinion they’re the most talented team in the NBL,’’ he said.

‘‘I always thought it would take them a bit of time to get their chemistry and roles sorted out. They’ve got a lot of talent and they’ll only get better as the season goes on.’’

Cairns have won all five of their games, the best start to a season in club history.

Their average winning margin is 12.8 points, while the closest they have come to a loss was the round two 91-89 victory over Wollongong.

Consistent contributions from the bench have been  key to the Taipans’ success. Fearne has two back-ups who would start for almost every other team in Cam Tragardh and import Torrey Craig.

‘‘Trigger [Tragardh] brings a massive offensive punch off the bench,’’ Fearne said.

‘‘He had an amazing pre-season playing that role. When he comes into the game we try and feed him the ball and get him to do his thing.

‘‘Torrey’s coming off the bench for us at this stage and brings some athleticism and length. He’s a big-time threat too, so it gives us some punch when it comes to making subs.’’

With smooth guard Scottie Wilbekin running the show, Cairns deserve equal favouritism with Perth.