|
|
 |
The Spartans of DePaul tamed the Panthers of Pequannock in a hard fought divisional girls' basketball game. Withstanding a late charge by the visitors, the Spartans grabbed a much-needed victory with strong defense down the stretch.
The Panthers’ ferocious defense kept the Spartans scoreless deep into the 1st quarter. Coach Chris Iannarone brought on freshman Rachael Ranieri who answered the call.
|
Ranieri scored 7 straight points spearing through the Panthers defense and providing the spark they needed. The Spartans continued draining shots and went on an 11-3 run. Both teams traded baskets the remainder of the first half and the Spartans led 23-15 at the break.
Four quick points gave the Spartans a big advantage to start the 3rd quarter. However, Pequannock’s Samantha Tabakman took over the game at both ends of the court with blocks and rebounds at one end and timely hoops at the other. Tabakman’s resolve rubbed off on her teammates and by the end of the third quarter the lead was slashed to only 5 points.
In the fourth quarter, the Spartans scored 4 quick points only to see the Panthers roar back. The Spartans' lead quickly vanished and the rim suddenly looked ever so small. Clutch baskets by Alex Brown and Tabakman gave the Panthers a 35-34 lead that stunned the Spartans and silenced the faithful in the high school stands.
It took a brave and timely defensive stand by DePaul to quickly regain the momentum. The Spartans unrelenting defense created problems for Pequannock, making it extremely difficult for the Panthers to find open looks. Defensive stops translated into offense as the Spartans went on a 7-0 run to fight off Pequannock and clinch the basketball victory.
Now with a record of 4-5, the Spartans could harvest more wins in the Suburban division with equally strong defensive outputs. -- Emir Liguori for Jersey Sports Now
|
