12/3/20: The Cottage School Cougars had a road contest versus the Covenant Christian Academy Rams. It was a make-up from a previously scheduled match on 11/19. The Cougars and Rams battled evenly for much of the first half, but TCS took control of the second two frames and prevailed 50-30.
The Covenant Rams had an 18-15 lead with just over three minutes remaining in the first half. Cottage created a couple apple turnovers to end the period resulting in a small run and a 25-18 edge at intermission. Coach Briggs spoke at halftime; “We know our offensive execution is slowly improving and we will not reach our peak until late January, but what’s not acceptable is the effort on the other end. We are supposed to set the tone defensively each and every night and we did not do that. If we can turn that around, we will go on a run and end this game early. If we do not…it will be a close throughout.”
The Cougars chose to value this request and amped up their defensive intensity. So much so that TCS went on a 24-3 run over the next 12 minutes of competition, which ultimately put the game out of reach for the Cottage 50-30 victory. The Cougars are now 4-1 to start the season (1-0 in AAC, 0-1 in GISA Region 5AA, & 3-0 non-conference).
Their next contest is 12/5 @ Atlanta Jewish Academy at 8:30PM. AJA is not allowing fans so tune in for the summary on Monday morning.
Game Notes:
Daniel Byman had his best basketball game to date. He set the tone defensively and ran point on offense directing the Cougars to move the ball. Daniel finished with 11 points, 5 assists, 5 rebounds, only 1 turnover, and back to back games with 7 steals.
Aidan Briggs equally served the same role as Daniel, but his defensive prowess was more aimed at the paint where his efforts stopped CCA from easy second chance points. Aidan snatched 10 boards, put in 12 points, and took two more charges.
Alex Hogg put in another fine performance with 10 points and 7 rebounds.
Reese Bentley had a two strong outings in a row with 9 points, 4 boards, and 2 blocks.
Anthony Kovach may not have been a highlight on offense but his defense was outstanding in the second half. Anthony finished with 7 rebounds and 2 steals.
