DORSET'S under-15s boys' and girls' basketball teams excelled at the recent south west inter-county tournament.

The boys came second in their event at Paignton Community and Sports Academy in Devon.

Victories were secured over Somerset and Gloucestershire before the youngsters lost to Bristol in an entertaining clash.

Dorset were again pitted against Bristol in the final and trailed 14-0 in the first quarter.

However, Dorset fought back superbly and drew level in the final quarter, only for Bristol to edge it in the final two minutes to win 38-35.

The county girls' side – made up of nine players – was competing for the first time having only trained as a squad twice.

They travelled to Wycliffe College in Gloucestershire and finished third.

Dorset got the better of a south west under-13s side as well as Gloucester to earn a place in the semi-final.

Leading at the end of the second quarter, Dorset suffered a narrow defeat to Bristol. They ended third courtesy of their wins and points scored.

Catello Landolfi, who coaches both sides, said: "We are really delighted with both teams. Their results and achievements showed their commitment.

"They played hard and their motivation, passion and teamwork was a joy to see."

Landolfi's assistant Steve Sherlock added: “We are all really proud. It was the best result the boys had achieved and the girls did so well.

"It is the best of times for Dorset basketball and we really appreciate the support we have had from parents."

Dorset has three basketball clubs – Dorset Storm, Dorchester Tigers and Weymouth – which offer training and match opportunities for youngsters.

Boys: Archie Dale, Alex Low, Gruff James, Owen Leivers, Giuseppe Landolfi, Luca Trevett, Will Sherlock, Kundiso Majome, Joe Gill, Josh Corbin, Alistair Webb, Pasquale Landolfi, Lewis Coward, Gob Derek Marquez.

Girls: Sophie Cary, Izzy Roberts, Jessica Cary, Grace Morgan, Charlotte Ward, Lauren Holder, Emily Screen, Gabby Bennett, Hettie Hudson.