FOR the second year running, the Symes Motors Bendigo Braves have finished runner-up in the South East Australia Basketball League's national championship final.The Braves were outmuscled and outpointed as the Nunawading Spectres charged to a 27-point victory in yesterday's play-off in the Crazy John's-backed league at Dandenong Stadium. Gallery: Bendigo Braves v Nunawading SpectresSpectres guard Shane McDonald was superb as he racked up a game-high 28 points to earn the MVP award in the 88-61 victory.McDonald had plenty of support as the David Biwer-coached Nunawading led for all but 24 seconds of the contest in the showdown between the south and east conference champions.Although the Braves were within seven points at half-time, they were in strife after league MVP and athletic forward Ivan McFarlin injured his left hamstring shortly before the break.McFarlin spent the second half on the bench in a disappointing end to what was a brilliant season by the Texan.The Braves kept on fighting, but the Spectres shooting skills and defensive pressure was outstanding as they went on to score an 88-61 victory.Bendigo coach Ben Harvey endured mixed emotions at match end."I am extremely proud of the group and what was an outstanding season," Harvey said of a 21-5 record in the regular season and then fighting back from a semi-final loss at home to win the conference grand final at Knox."But today was disappointing," he said of being outmuscled and outpointed by the Spectres in the biggest game of the year.For more, see tomorrow's Bendigo Advertiser.
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