Eagles Escape with split from Saxony

JP is fouled on a shot attempt
courtesy: semoball.com

The Oran Eagles were involved in two close games on Friday night at Saxony Lutheran High School in Fruitland.  The varsity was able to pick up a win, the junior varsity was not as fortunate.

Both games started as if the Eagles would win big.

In the nightcap, the older Eagles had the Crusaders doubled up mid-way through the second period 30-15, thanks in large part to the hot shooting hand of Hunter Schlosser.  Schlosser scored 20 of his game high 30 points in the first half.  But the home team went on an 8-2 run to cut the lead to 9, 32-23 at half time.

After the third quarter Oran's lead was down to four, 45-41.

Coach Shoemaker works
the sideline.
courtesy:  semoball.com

It got even closer in the final period.

With one minute to play the lead was only 1 when Schlosser drove to the goal, made the shot and was fouled.  After sinking the "and one" the lead was four and the Eagles were able to complete the 55-49 victory over the Class 3 Saxony Lutheran team.

Besides Schlosser's 30, Jacob Priggel added 16 points.

Interesting stat from the game:  Eagles shoot 12-21 from the free throw line, while Saxony was 21-40.

JV Action

The junior varsity game started in an even more lopsided manor as Oran screeched out to a 14-1 lead after the first seven minutes.  From there on out though, the Eagles were outscored in each of the final three quarters.  At the end of the fourth quarter the score was knotted at 45.

Oran ended up losing in double overtime 59-51.

Free throw shooting hurt the Jr. Eagles.  They were only 16-30 overall and a dismal 2-7 in the fateful fourth quarter.

Layne Johnson led the team with 19 points and Cole Priggel chipped in 16.

The varsity Eagles have a 9-5 record while the junior varsity now stand at 4-5.

Both teams will be back in action for a rare Wednesday evening game at conference foe Kelly.  Game time is 6 pm.