He's back! And United keep on rollin' to start NBL26

• Melbourne United defeat Cairns Taipans 95–60 at John Cain Arena on the back of Jesse Edwards' 16-point, 12-rebound double-double
• Chris Goulding returned to the line-up and dropped 16 points in 18 minutes
• United force 26 turnovers in defensive masterclass as Taipans shoot just 15% from three-point range

Can anyone stop Melbourne United, that's the question to start NBL26 as they absolutely dismantled Cairns Taipans 95-60 at John Cain Arena in Round 4.

Melbourne United are now 5-0 as big man Jesse Edwards' delivered 16-point, 12-rebound double-double and Australian Boomers star Chris Goulding returned from injury to pour in 16 points in just 18 minutes.

Key Details

• Result: Melbourne United 95 def. Cairns Taipans 60
• When: 12th October 2025
• Where: John Cain Arena, Melbourne
• Standings

By the Numbers

• Jesse Edwards (Melbourne United) starred with 16 points, 12 rebounds and one block in 20 minutes.
• Alex Higgins-Titsha (Cairns Taipans) scored 16 points, had two rebounds, one steal and two blocks in 24 minutes.

What Happened

Melbourne United established dominance from the opening tip, racing to a 27-15 first-quarter lead and extending their advantage to 48-25 by halftime. United maintained control throughout the second half, outscoring Cairns 22-16 in the third quarter and 25-19 in the final period to secure the comprehensive 35-point victory.

United's defensive pressure proved the difference, forcing Cairns into 26 turnovers while committing just nine themselves. This differential created numerous transition opportunities and easy baskets for Melbourne, who capitalised repeatedly on Taipans' mistakes. Chris Goulding provided 16 points in just 18 minutes, matching Edwards for team-high scoring honours.

Jesse Edwards dominated the interior with an efficient 6-from-10 shooting performance while collecting a game-high 12 rebounds, including six on the offensive glass. His presence helped United establish a decisive 46-36 rebounding advantage, with 17 offensive rebounds leading to crucial second-chance opportunities.

Cairns struggled mightily from beyond the arc, connecting on just 4-from-27 three-point attempts (14.8%). Andrew Andrews contributed 10 points and six assists for the Taipans, but his seven turnovers reflected the team's ball-handling issues. Admiral Schofield also struggled with five turnovers before fouling out after just 19 minutes of action.

Melbourne's balanced attack featured seven players scoring six or more points, showcasing their offensive depth. United's defence limited Cairns to just 37% shooting from the field while forcing them into difficult shots throughout the contest. The home side's biggest lead reached 35 points, with their largest scoring run of 25 consecutive points effectively ending any hopes of a Taipans comeback.

MORE TO COME