FOOTBALL’S loss is basketball’s gain today as Scott Rowe (pictured) foregoes the Malaya Cup match with the Royal Naval Air Command to help Guernsey on their national basketball league debut.

Rowe played a blinder in goal for the under-21s in their 1-0 victory over the RNAC on Thursday evening.

However, the 6ft 4in. 19-year-old is also a talented basketballer and will be in a green vest this evening as Guernsey take on Bristol Storm in their first match in National League Division Four Men South West.

‘I’m disappointed to be missing it [the RNAC match] but I’m also excited to be playing in England for the basketball,’ said Rowe.

‘I’m really looking forward to it. It’s a new experience and it’s something we’ve not done before.

‘It’s good that I’m young and we’re doing it now. It’s good to get the opportunity.’

The Guernsey basketball player-coach Jeff Stuart is glad that Rowe has committed to the national league this weekend.

Rowe will play as a forward but he also has a good ‘outside’ shot on him.

‘He’s worked really, really hard over the summer, probably more than anyone,’ said Stuart.