London United travelled North to Manchester on Saturday evening in an attempt to continue their unbeaten run of 9-0 in the EBL Division 1.

Without 2 big men Sebastian Saloman and the injured Peter van Elswyk United's Assistant coach Dave Schiller was concerned about ensuring the two remaining centres Damian Reid and Mantia Callender were able to keep out of foul trouble and remain on the floor as long as possible.

With Jack Majewki (Head coach) committed to taking the juniors in Bristol it was down to Dave to call the shots infront of the capacity crowd at the Ameechi centre.

United started much the brighter taking a first quarter lead of 5 points mainly through Damian Reids inside presence. He finished a couple of assists from Steve Vear with exclamation "Dunks".

Mantia Callender also worked tirelessly taking rebounds at the defensive end and matching up with Manchester's rebound "monster" Andrew Lovedale.

By half time London looked like they could run away with the game as they capitalised on Magic's inability to break down their defence and United were able to continuously score underneath the basket. The lead was stretched to 12 points although Manchester managed to bring it back to a 9 point deficit as the half time buzzer sounded.

The second half was a different affair as Manchester seemed to up their intensity and London's guards were unable to make perimeter shots. With the crowd cheering on the home team they caught up the deficit and took a 4 point lead at 54-50 at the end of the 3rd quarter.

United decided to go back into a man defence with both big men keeping out of foul trouble for most of the game and were able to up the intensity themselves. Scores traded for much of the last quarter until United's Walid Mumuni made a couple of steals and pushed the ball up court to make some fast break efforts count.

Reid stepped out to the arc to make a 3 pointer after Manchester's Gill had hit one from the corner.

It was Junior Williams composure at the point for London that helped United take the victory as he made good passes to the big men for them to convert their opportunities under the ring. United ran out winners at 72-77 with Reid top scoring with 22 and 12 rebounds and Callender taking 16 and 10 rebounds. Mumuni had 8 with an incredible 9 steals.

United showed their ability to win games even when they were obviously under par and without two key players.

Manchester Magic 72 - London United 77

United fans should be aware that the game against Sheffield Arrows scheduled for the 16th January is now to be played on the 23rd January at Brunel tip off at 2pm.

Tickets are available on the door, see www.london-united.co.uk for more information