Smiegocki, Huff Clutch in Watchung Hills Win

The girls basketball team overcame an early deficit to defeat Hillsborough, 43-41 Tuesday night.

Overview

Powered by senior forward Kristina Vangeli, the Raiders run up an early lead in the first period, and held on through the second. But the Warriors stepped up with a full-court defense and stymied Vangeli in the third, giving them a chance to catch up. With 56 seconds left in the third, the Warriors grabbed the lead for the first time in the game.

The fourth proved to be a battle for control, but when the Raiders got into free throw trouble, the Warriors capitalized on the opportunity to take control and win the game.

Coach Sandy Whelan noted the team seemed to have forgotten the game plan early in the game, but once regrouped, was able to take control of the game.

Warriors of the Game

Stephanie Huff—The junior forward proved a potent weapon at the free throw line.

Monique Goncalves—Goncalves' aggressive defensive play tormented the Raiders, forcing turnovers that set up the Warriors' scoring opportunities.

They Said It

"We went 16 of 19 at the line. That'll win you close games. They all came though down the stretch." — Head Coach Sandy Whelan.

Next up

The Warriors host Gill St. Bernard's Thursday at 7 p.m.