By Allie Laidlaw
Sports Correspondent
Oxford’s season opener in boys basketball started with hope, but ended in disappointment Friday night as the Cats fell 70-50 to Rochester.
Coach Steve Laidlaw was ‘pleased? with the team’s performance in the first quarter as the Cats came out strong and were leading 15-13 on their home court.
But Rochester came back in the second quarter, outscoring the Cats and taking the lead 39-28.
Oxford was unable to bounce back and Rochester kept the lead for all of the second half.
The Cats shot poorly at the free throw line making only 15 of 33. Oxford was also out-rebounded significantly.
‘Missed free throws and not being able to control the defensive board lead to the loss,? Laidlaw said.
Senior Brandon Dugan was the Cats leading scorer with 15 points, which included three 3-point shots. He went six for eight in shooting.
Senior Todd DeGracia scored 9 points, while junior Chris Keenist put 8 points up on the board.
Senior Vinnie Ives lead the team with five rebounds while junior Zach Tilley had three assists.
Oxford will take on Royal Oak at home Tuesday, Dec. 12. On Friday, Dec. 15, the Cats once again have home court advantage as they play Clio.