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United’s record stands at 5-3 heading into Sunday’s home game against Cairns.
Despite the absence of star guard Chris Goulding (knee injury), the visitors confidently jumped out to 15-11 lead before the Hawks closed with a 15-4 surge to be ahead 25-20 at quarter-time.
Coenraad had the hot hand with nine points, while DJ Kennedy paced Melbourne with seven.
The Hawks controlled the opening minutes of the second period, extending the margin to 11.
But just when they were on track to build a big double-digit halftime lead, Melbourne raised the bar, cutting the deficit to four.
Illawarra regained the momentum to be ahead 51-42 at halftime, aided by a technical foul called on Melbourne coach Dean Vickerman late in the quarter.
Illawarra continued to out-play their star-studded opponents, taking a 72-59 lead into the final period and answering every challenge down the stretch.
The Hawks back up on Sunday with another home game against Perth.
Illawarra’s win avenged two previous losses to Melbourne this season.
“They came out with a lot of energy and intent and we didn’t match it with them the whole first half,” Vickerman said.
“We turned it around and we still had some decent looks to win the game but they deserved that one.
Vickerman expects Goulding to play on Sunday.
Illawarra coach Rob Beveridge was proud of his team’s performance after two straight losses.
“There’s been a bit of hate from our own fans which is pretty disappointing,” Beveridge said.
“We had to prove to ourselves that we can compete with any team in the league and we showed that tonight.
“Dave turned back the clock and was absolutely outstanding. His talk, his leadership – what a fabulous performance from a bloke who’s 38. He didn’t look 38 tonight.”
AAP
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