JV Cougars Come Up Short Versus Al Falah Lions

The Cottage School JV Cougars lost another tough game on Saturday, falling to the Lions of Al Falah Academy 58-15. The Cougars were short handed on Saturday, but they battled throughout the game and have a lot to be proud of heading into their winter break.

The Lions jumped out to a fast start in the first quarter, leaving the Cougars stunned. The Cougars struggled to maintain possession of the ball, and their multiple turnovers led to easy baskets at the other end for the Lions. Despite the lopsided score, Matthew Placide played perhaps his best game of the season. He battled relentlessly in the paint against bigger opponents, and his leadership by example helped the Cougars steady themselves after the initial Al Falah run.

In the second quarter, Liam Walsh got his shot to start falling as he hit two deep 3 pointers. Alex Yager, Hunter Cool, and Jaview Cremer joined Placide to fight for rebounds and play help defense. Austin Schwartz, Ben Gardner, and Bryce Dickerson hustled relentlessly throughout the game, helping the Cougars get some defensive stops. At halftime, the Lions led 25-6.

The Lions began the 3rd quarter in a full court press, giving the Cougars further difficulty. Walsh managed to knock down a free throw in the quarter, but that was the solitary Cougar point. Al Falah extend their lead to 45-7 after 3 quarters.

The Cougars saved their best for last, scoring 8 points in the 4th and holding the Lions to just 13. Reese Silverman, Andrew Marriott, Michael Coryer, and Nate Dunbar provided energy off the bench, and their defensive effort contributed to the Cougars’ 4th quarter success.

The Cougars left the gym with their heads held high. Al Falah is a tough opponent, and the Cougars fought with everything they had for all 28 minutes. The team now heads into their winter break where they will look to rest, improve, and ready themselves for a push towards the playoffs in 2020!