The Townsville Crocodiles overcame an uninspired Adelaide 36ers to record a vital 92-82 NBL win at the Distinctive Homes Dome in Adelaide on Sunday.

The Crocodiles led comfortably for most of the match against a 36ers side lacking their usual fight in front of their home fans.

Michael Cedar top scored for the Crocodiles with 17 points while Galen Young (14) and Brad Sheridan (13) also contributed to the solid performance.

Adam Ballinger shot home 21 points for the 36ers with Brad Davidson finishing with 19 and David Cooper 15.

Defence dominated the early exchanges as both sides struggled to find any spark in their offensive play.

During the second period Cedar broke the defensive shackles to slam home 17 points and, with the match opening up, the Crocodiles led 45-38 at halftime.

The Crocodiles extended their lead to nine points at three-quarter time as the 36ers wasted numerous opportunities early in the term before recovering with three late tip-ins from Cooper.

The 36ers rallied early in the final term but the Crocodiles steadied to take back control of the tempo and hold off any thoughts of a fightback.

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