15 Dec 2014

Breakers pass test with flying colours

6:41 am on 15 December 2014

The New Zealand Breakers assistant coach Paul Henare says he's pleased with the nature of yesterday's win, which has propelled them to top spot in the Australian National Basketball League.

Cedric Jackson of the Breakers celebrates a three pointer.

Cedric Jackson of the Breakers Photo: PHOTOSPORT

The Breakers scored a hard fought 92-87 win over Melbourne in Australia after the hosts led by 4 at half time.

The lead changed hands numerous times before the Breakers went ahead and then held on for the win.

It was the first home defeat for Melbourne in seven games, while the encounter was Mika Vukona's record-breaking 251st appearance for the Breakers.

Corey Webster had 19 points and Cedric Jackson 18.

The Breakers have an 11 and 4 record, while Perth and Cairns are 10 and 4.

The Breakers assistant coach Paul Henare says it was encouraging that they ground out a tough win.

"It was a real test for us - a grind out win. You know it's good to go through that process at some stage in the season and just sort of see how you fare. We had a good run in the second half, we lost the lead, they made a run [and] obviously when you're on the road that makes things tough but to grind out a win under those tough circumstances [I'm] extremely happy with the boys".

The Breakers are at home to Townsville on Friday.