After playing their first six games on the road the Lady Roadrunners finally got to play in front of the home fans on Tuesday night and responded with a 73-53 win over visiting Alchesay.
Holbrook applied pressure early in the game, forcing the Lady Falcons into turnovers that resulted in the home team holding a 22-8 first period advantage. The Falcons played well down the stretch of the first half, netting 19 second period points and pulled to within 12 of Holbrook at the half.
The Roadrunners came out hard in the third, extending the lead to 20 points heading into the fourth period. In the final frame each team netted 16, leaving Holbrook unbeaten thus far on the season with a 7-0 record.
“We came out strong with our defense and got up on them early. In the second period we left a couple of their shooters open and they really hurt us on the boards, which allowed them to get back into the game,” said Coach Greg Perkins.
“The second half we did a better job rebounding and changed up our defense enough to keep them off balance.
“It was good to see Elena and Twyla both find the range from three-point land. Also, Alishea Kee came off the bench and hit a trio of treys, giving us a spark on offense. Once again we did a good job of getting the ball inside to Madisen and she responded by getting to the free throw line 14 times.
“Missed free throws and layups are areas of concern we really need to clean up heading forward in the season. I certainly can’t fault the effort these girls play with. Sometimes our execution needs to be better, but, man, they really do play hard. As long as we keep that up, we have a chance to win games,” said the coach.
Holbrook was led in scoring by Madisen Chappell with 25 points. Twyla Clark added 13; Alishea Kee, 10, Elena Smith, 9, Ariyana Pratt 4, Aiyana Gary, 3; Dakota Dick, Dishie Kinlicheenie, Shoshawna Jack and Tyler Pacheco, 2 each; and Tristen Ambrose, 1. As a team, Holbrook made 17 of 30 free throws and hit eight three-point shots.
Alchesay was led by Devanie Cosay with 14 points. The Falcons made six treys and went 11 for 20 at the line.
After playing in the Round Valley Tournament this weekend, the Roadrunners will travel to Chinle on Tuesday night, Dec. 13. On Friday, Dec. 16, they host Blue Ridge.
