Regulators hurt by economic crisis - lose to Accurate Financial, lose Roopa for the season

Another balls 'n' all effort thwarted in crunch-time

The Regulators have had some heartbreaking losses in their history, yet I can't recall one as devastating as the loss on Monday.

The signs were good early as the Regs jumped out to a quick lead behind a solid shooting night from Ben Torrance and the always-steady Mat Owens. About five minutes in however, the tone of the game shifted dramatically.

Cult-figure and defensive specialist Roopa had barely checked into the game when, in typical fashion he chased down a loose ball, beat his man, drove the lane and rose up high to rebound his own shot.

"I heard a 'pop' and knew it wasn't a good thing. The massive pain in my knee gave me a clue as well." Roopa, post-game press conference.

With Roopa on the sidelines and Digs hungover and on daddy duties, it was up to the six remaining Regulators to win the game against the top team on the ladder. Once again Mattyo lead the charge, and when Claude entered he proceeded to catch fire and tons of shots from everywhere.

With Sam Fuggle back in the middle and Matt Leonard down low doing their thing, new recruit Mal Michael was able to play as a swingman and provide some timely offense.

The game was once again, tied at the half.

The second half was close before Accurate Financial (has there been a duller team name in the history of organised sports? Please comment if you have one), went on a run and looked to have the game wrapped up.

Ben Torrance again came up with the goods, draining back-to-back threes to bring the Regs back to within two points. Claude and Mattyo also provided late threes but it just wasn't enough.

Final score - Regulators 46 Accurate Financial 50

Video highlights including Roopas unfortunate injury below: