by Ben Gaines
The last game against Granville was an easy match for the Hoosick Falls Varsity squad. That was not the case Friday night, January 25. Coach Lilac’s plan last game was to contain the Horde’s 6’3” Jared Beattie, who averages 23 points per game. The plan worked last time, not this time.
Randy Tutunjian broke the ice at 6:17 with the only bucket of the 7-9 quarter. The other five were from foul shots. Coach Lilac switched up the team half way through the first quarter and put in Evan Phillips, Cody Gaines and Josh Brogue in an effort to bring the game back for the Panthers. The three seniors did what they do best; scoring and defense. The tactic paid dividends and the half ended 26-21. The second half saw the starters take the floor. The score ratcheted up on both sides through the third quarter; while the fouls only mounted on the Panthers’ side. It was 4:16 in the fourth when the Horde received their first foul of the half. Andrew Hoag came through for the Panthers, making both shots, as did Randy Tutunjian on the following foul. The damage was severe, and the Horde was closing the points gap. The next couple minutes were in the Horde’s favor. The Panthers’ missed shots and turnovers nearly sealed their fate. Coach Lilac called a time out at 1:43 while the score was 55-50. His instructions were loud and clear from across the court. The Horde had a great run, but they failed to manage the clock as Falls played defense and protected the ball. In the next 1:17 Granville committed seven fouls so they could manage the clock and score the points they needed to avenge the earlier loss. The tactic was too little too late as Falls played keep away in an effort to run out the clock. The last Horde foul was committed with 17 seconds remaining. Granville brought the ball down the court for a quick three point attempt but turned the ball over before they got off the shot. The Panthers captured the turnover and won the match 58-50.