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 While this was not the way the Toppers would have liked to end
their season, at least they lost to the team that has been ranked
No. 1 in the state for much of the season.
The Crusaders managed to shut down Beau Collier, who only had one
point, in the loss. In fact, LuHi pretty much shut down the entire
team as the Toppers only managed 25 points, a season low. Seniors
Matt Amidon and Michael Lowery led the Toppers with seven points
each, while junior Brett Huff had five points. Pierson Wofford led
LuHi with 23 points.
Perhaps the only bright spot on the night was the Toppers first
quarter. Blake Collier managed two layups around a sea of LuHi
defenders and Brett Huff hit a jumper just before the first quarter
buzzer and the Toppers only trailed 11-7.
The second quarter turned ugly quick for Mount Pulaski. A series of
turnovers by the Toppers led to the Crusaders going on a 13-0 run
and the hole was just beginning to be dug, 24-7. Lowery finally made
a three for the Toppers at the 3:15 mark and the deficit was still
24-10. The Crusaders took a 27-13 lead into the locker room at the
half.
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It took the Crusaders just a couple minutes in the third to extend
the lead to 33-13. Pierson Wofford continued to dominate, scoring
eight of his points in the third quarter and there was no doubt at
the end of the third, with a 44-20 lead, Wofford and his team were
on a mission. Meanwhile, the Toppers just could not get any shots to
fall and with the phenomenal defense the Crusaders were playing, the
Toppers were showing signs of wearing down.
LuHi spent the fourth quarter running time off the clock, but still
managed to outscore the Toppers 13-5 and by the time the final
buzzer sounded the Toppers were just relieved this one was over.
The Toppers end their season at 17-12.
LuHi's 29-1 season continues next Wednesday at 7:00 at the sectional
tournament in Lewistown.
[Teena Lowery] |
