Lady Dragons stifle Trojans' girls in Sonoma County League play

Petaluma High's Jordan Shyne scored 17 points, but it wasn't enough as the Sonoma Valley High girls cruised to a 35-27 basketball win in Sonoma County League play on Tuesday.

Petaluma is now 2-2 in the SCL and 8-9 overall. Sonoma Valley improved to 3-2 in the league and 11-7 overall.

"I think we played hard. That's what our coaches wanted. Next time, I think we can get them," Petaluma forward Jenna Ross said.

Shyne added seven rebounds and blocked two shots for the Trojans in the defeat.

Sonoma  Valley head coach Sil Coccia addressed his team early, looking for players to step forward in the SCL showdown.

Though offensive play was led by Ellie Ceja with 11 points and Annie Studdert with 13, it was Jersey Witous who brought intensity to the Lady Dragons' effort. Witous answered Coccia's call to action with aggressive defense and focus.

With Lady Dragon focus begining to wan as the game goes into the third and fourth quaters,  

Sonoma Valley struggled in the second half as Shyne continued scoring.

The fourth proved to be Shyne's best scoring eight of her points and cutting the Lady Dragon lead to seven with 3 minutes, 57 seconds left in the game. The Trojans trailed just 27-21.

While Sonoma Valley slowed Shyne, the Lady Dragons pulled away converting shots from the free throw line.

The individual battle between Ceja and Shyne escalated, sending Ceja to the line nine times. The Lady Dragons took 34 free throws and made 17.

"I just wish we could make more," Coccia said, showing a bit of frustration.