Northern Tier Sports ReportATHENS — Canton out scored Athens 17-8 in the second half to rally for a 31-25 win over the Wildcats during NTL girls’ basketball action Wednesday.
“Even though Athens is young they are very well coached and a tough game for anyone,” said Canton coach Ryan Van Noy. “It was a very solid team win, I’m just so proud of our kids. It wasn’t the prettiest, but when we needed a rebound or a shot or a steal the girls dug down deep and got it when we needed it. Defensively we were pretty tough tonight and ultimately that’s what won us the game.”
Cailyn Van Noy had 12 points, and seven steals to lead the Warriors, as Stella Rockwell finished with seven points, and three steals.
Lydia Roupp added four points, while Danah Wesneski, and Cheyenne Fitch had two points apiece.
Alexis McRoberts added two points, eight boards, five steals, and three assists, with Daveian Crowley grabbing four boards.
Alexis Mayo had 11 points to lead Athens.
It was tough sledding for offensives in the first frame, as Canton held a 5-4 lead at the first horn.
All of Athens’ points came on free throws, while Rockwell broke a 2-2 tie late in the quarter with a 3-ball.
The two point guards broke out in the second quarter, as Mayo had seven points, and Van Noy netted eight.
Athens out scored Canton 13-9 to take the 3-point lead at the half.
Canton chipped away in the third, out scoring Athens 6-5, with Wesneski hitting a 3-ball.
Then came the fourth, where the Warriors out scored Athens 11-3 - holding them to without a field goal - as Roupp had four points to lead the Warriors.
Athens won the JV game 51-18.
“I’m just very happy the girls are seeing success due to the work they’ve put in,” Van Noy said. “This is a special bunch of girls and I love coaching them.”
Canton (11-3) will travel to Towanda on Thursday.
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PHOTOS BY CHRIS MANNING
