Saints grind out fourth straight win in Hāwera

The first quarter lacked flow. Both sides turned the ball over seven times. The Saints struggled to build rhythm but stayed composed on the defensive end. They held the Airs to 13 points and stayed within striking distance at the break, down 15 to 13.

Elijah Pepper set the tone in the second. He found his spots early and shot with efficiency, going 6 from 7 on his way to 16 first half points. His scoring lifted the Saints and gave them control of the game. The visitors tightened their execution, reduced errors, and began to dictate tempo. That shift produced a six point lead heading into halftime.

Out of the break, the Saints faced a response and had to absorb pressure. Possessions slowed and the margin tightened. The group stayed disciplined. Defensive rotations held firm and key rebounds limited second chance looks. When the game sat in the balance, the Saints executed.

The fourth quarter showed control. The Saints moved the ball with purpose, created clean looks, and capitalised at the rim. Stops on the other end allowed them to stretch the margin and take command late. The run sealed the result and extended the win streak to four.

Pepper led all scorers with 29 points and added 8 rebounds. Akech Aliir delivered a strong inside presence with 19 points and 8 boards. Carlin Davison impacted across the floor with 10 points, 6 rebounds, and 7 assists, while also creating pressure with 3 steals.

The Saints continue to build momentum, finding ways to win in different game styles and closing out tight contests on the road.