Port Macquarie Dolphins are mid-way through a test with their toughest opponents.
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The Dolphins took a heavy 95-59 point loss against the Newcastle Hunters at Port Macquarie Basketball Stadium on Saturday, May 4.
"They outgunned us in the first half, as soon as they got a run and scored some points. Our team was a little shell-shocked," coach Mark Champion said.
"During the second half we were back under control and made them fight.
"Progress was evident. I think we are showing signs of improvement."
The Hunters were their initial test in the first of four games against the ladder's top three teams.
The Dolphins are set to play an away game against the undefeated Hill Hornets on May 11, Tamworth Thunderbolts on May 18 and an away game against Newcastle on May 25.
We're going to use this stretch of four games to beef up competitively for a stronger run against the medium teams.
- Mark Champion
However there is a hidden strategy in the works.
"We're going to use this stretch of four games to beef up competitively for a stronger run against the medium teams," Mr Champion said.
"We'll fight through the next couple of rounds and build that competitiveness.
"We are going for this season to build towards something."
The Dolphins currently hold one win and six losses, occupying eighth spot on the ladder above the Central Coast Waves and Springwood Scorchers.
The Dolphins will next play the top of the ladder Hornets at Hills Basketball Stadium on Saturday, May 11.
"We are away in the Hills next game. Hills are currently undefeated," he said.
"Our aim is to make it competitive. The real goal is to play as best we can, keep it tight and you never know what could happen."
"There's clear improvement and they're still having fun."
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