Coach Shafkalis knew what he needed to do going into last week’s contest at Troy Athens, a team known for its outstanding 3-point game.
‘We need to stop their 3-point attack,? said Shafkalis prior to the game. ‘If we do that, we’ll be OK.?
The game opened at a very slow pace, with both teams looking tentative. It was a defensive battle and both teams struggled to get any offense going at all.
As the first period came to a close, the Red Hawks had an 8-6 lead.
The Red Hawks opened up the second attacking on offense and setting up the 3-point shots, hitting a couple of quick buckets and stretching their lead to 14-6.
The Dragons called a quick timeout, regrouped and came out strong.
After scoring a couple of quick baskets that changed the momentum, Dragon defense started to clamp down.
The Red Hawks struggled against the pressure defense and began to commit turnovers, which the Dragons quickly turned into points. The first half closed with a 21-17 Dragon lead.
As the second half started, the Dragons came out in a full court press, forcing turnovers they quickly capitalized on. The team spent the remained of the game confusing the Red Hawks with a variety of defenses and went on to win 50-43.
Leading scorers were Alex Mayo, 15; Derek Schrauben, 13; Ian Monk 8; and Steve Dolinski, 4.
‘We needed this one,? said Shafkalis after the game. ‘After a tough week last week, losing two games in a row, it was a big win for us mentally.?
The Dragons played Tuesday at Rochester Adams, and take on Troy in the season’s last home game, Thursday, which is also Senior Night.
The boys start district play March 8 against Stoney Creek at Clarkston High School.
The Dragons are ranked ninth overall in the OAA.
~ Submitted