(February 20th, 2015) – STRYKER: Stryker assumed control in the early goings of their match-up with North Central. Yet the Eagle boys refused to go away, keeping within arm’s reach of their hosts throughout the contest.
They were never able to make a serious attempt at the lead, however, as North Central fell at Stryker 54-45.
The Panthers jumped to a 9 point lead in the first quarter, with a 16-7 showing in the game’s opening period. While they didn’t fall further behind, the boys from Pioneer could not put a dent in their deficit, finding themselves on the wrong side of a 26-18 halftime score.
North Central was able to inch a bit closer in the third period, coming within 7 points of the Panther boys. That was due to outscoring Stryker 8-7 in the frame. The hometown boys held firm in the fourth period, however, reestablishing their 9 point lead to close out the game down the stretch.
Each squad was led by a potent senior scoring duo throughout the game.
For Stryker, it was Parker Ruffer and Tanner Clingaman who stepped up for the their team. Ruffer led all scorers in the game with 24 points. Clingaman also reached double digits, scoring 10 points in the victory.
North Central looked to Jordan Reeves and Jordan Bailey for their scoring needs. Reeves provided the Eagle boys with 18 points. Bailey was close behind with 17 points in the loss.