By: Joel Herrig
Murray County News Sports
The Murray County Central Rebels hosted the Southwest Minnesota Christian Eagles Friday night in a Red Rock Conference matchup. The Eagles came into the game 5-0 on the season while the Rebels were 5-3. They were looking to end their three-game losing streak dating back to the Christmas Holiday break and prior. The Rebels had played one game during the break while the Eagles hadn’t played any. Both teams came in well rested. For the Rebels, some of the previous struggles that showed on defense during the past three games had disappeared like the Christmas trees.
It was a great night for basketball this past Friday with the biggest crowd for a basketball game this season. The Rebels certainly didn’t disappoint in the first half. The Eagles did take an early lead in this game but the Rebels controlled play throughout most of the first half. MCC’s defense was terrific holding the Eagles to 35% shooting and forcing them into 10 first-half turnovers.
Offensively the Rebels relied on a trio of players to carry them. Nate Everson was strong from the get-go scoring twelve first-half points but also grabbing four rebounds and two steals. Everson was able to get the Rebel’s points when others were not looking for their shot or not making them. As the half went along Jack Pierson hit a couple huge three-point shots on his way to eight points and five first-half rebounds. Then as the half was winding down Spencer Wajer caught fire scoring ten points helping the Rebels build a 36 to 25 lead at halftime. MCC outshot the Eagles from the field and from the free throw line in the first half as well as outrebounding SWC along with fewer turnovers.
During the Rebel’s three-game losing streak MCC fell behind by double digits early in the second half and was forced to dig themselves out of a large hole. In this game, the Rebels defended a lead which, in itself, is a very different mindset. The Rebels defense changed very little from the first half but the offense took a step back. MCC actually built twelve point leads at different times in the second half. Each time the Eagles were able to answer back. MCC didn’t allow the Eagles many open shots forcing them to take time off the clock.
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