Rillie backs 'Cats to land on their feet

They conceded the fewest points of any team in the league during the Hungry Jack’s NBL26 Season, which is why John Rillie was far from pleased with the 111 the Perth Wildcats allowed in their first Final.

It was a dominant display from the South East Melbourne Phoenix in the Seeding Qualifier, and now the Wildcats face a do-or-die Play In Game on Saturday night, just to keep their season alive.

Like the Phoenix, Melbourne United have their fair share of offensive weapons, and a repeat of the other night’s performance simply won’t get it done for Rillie and his team.

“We played 33 games and in one of the statistical categories we finished the number one defence in the league,” Rillie said.

“So it's been a constant and we performed in a bad manner the other day. So us bouncing back, we've shown great resolve around those moments this season so far and I don't expect anything less tomorrow.”

The 111 points were the most the Wildcats have conceded in a game this season.

Even so, Rillie remains confident in his side turning things around.

“The excitement [for Saturday night] and then part of it the disappointment of the way we performed and the ability to bounce back. So there's a lot of emotion that goes into it, but good prep today,” he said on Friday.

“That’s why you play the regular season, to give yourself these opportunities.

“And you know, we come home, play in front of our own fans and both teams understand what's on the line tomorrow.”

Rillie says the Wildcats will take any edge they can against United, with the Red Army expected to play a key role.

“If I take anything out of today's practice, everyone's excited to bounce back and us being able to do that on RAC in front of our fans is a terrific moment,” he added.

“We're at the point of the year where all of these things come into play.”

Rillie was also challenged on his head coaching role with the Australian Boomers during the Wildcats' FIBA Break preparatons.

"(It was) the right decision," he said.

Perth takes on Melbourne on Saturday night at RAC Arena, live on ESPN from 8pm AEDT.