Cougars smother Al Falah with 49-17 victory

The Cottage School Cougars hosted Al Falah Academy on a rare Saturday afternoon. In just their third year having a basketball program Al Falah has enough boys for JV and Varsity. They have improved each season. Last year Cottage split with them and will have two contests in 2019-2020. The first of two went to the Cougars this day; 49-17.

The Cottage defense was too much for Al Falah, making it difficult for them to get any clean looks at the basket. Matter of fact, TCS held Al Falah to just 9 points over the first three periods. Meanwhile, the Cougars capitalized off turnovers and missed shots scoring in transition and with consistent ball movement in their half court sets. TCS scored over 10 points each quarter going ahead 38-7 after those three stanzas. Al Falah were able to put in 8 points in the final frame but the damage was already done. The Cougars prevailed 49-17 for their second win in a row.

Next week they have semester exams, but will have a day of practice before one final game of 2019. The Cougars will travel to Doraville, GA to take on AAC newcomer, the Tapestry Charter Titans. Tapestry is 2-1 in the AAC with two wins over Howard and a loss to AASD. The contest will take place at 5:00PM on 12/18/19.

Game Notes:

Tim Mattioli had his best overall game in a Cougar uniform. He scored 12 points, had 4 steals, 3 blocked shots, 3 assists, and only 1 turnover. His patience on offense has been a work in progress and it paid off.

Aidan Briggs had his second double-double of the season with 17 points and 16 rebounds. He controlled the paint on both ends.

Daniel Byman and Ruslan van Kesteren each had strong efforts. They both chipped in a couple of baskets but it was their defense that stood out. Their efforts shut down any and all driving lanes and as a result they snagged 7 boards each off poor, off-balanced shots.

Kyle Kimble added 5 rebounds, 2 blocks, and 2 steals.

Shane Hendrickson continued accurate passing, adding 6 more assists.