A decisive milestone victory! Hornell – 82, Livonia – 48
From Hornell High School Athletics, photos by Josh Media
The Hornell Red Raiders remain undefeated after a big win in the Maple City Monday night. Improving to 6-0 on the season, the game marked a milestone for coach Kirk Scholes, who tallied win #200 in his 15-year career as head coach of the Raiders.
A close game through the first quarter, Hornell senior, Gennaro Picco netted 15 of his 28 points in the 2nd quarter to help put the Raiders up 38-23 at the half. The Red Raiders were able to grow their lead throughout the second half to come out on top 82-48.
“The kids were great tonight,” said coach Scholes. “We did a great job limiting Livonia to one shot, and Wyatt Evingham did a tremendous job on Connor Feehan.” Evingham also went 4-4 from the free throw line and added 7 points in the win.
“Offensively,” continued Scholes, “we shot the ball extremely well. Knocking down 14 3s is a ton. Gennaro got the hot hand early, and it was contagious. Gennaro having 28 points a game has become almost the norm. Sometimes I have to pinch myself because it makes my job a lot easier.” Gennaro led all scorers with 28 points, including six 3-pointers and added 6 assists on the night.
The Hornell win was a team effort with impressive contributions from several players. “Xzaiver Patrick had a great game,” said Scholes. “He finished around the rim all night and gave us a big 11 points.” Patrick also grabbed 6 rebounds. PJ Picco led all players with 10 rebounds and earned a double-double with 11 points. Aaron McInerney added 6 points and 5 rebounds. Also scoring were Kellen Crowe (8), Quinn Mauro (6), & Marco Picco (5).
Livonia’s Thomas Stewart led his team with 15 points, followed by teammate Nicholas Coyle with 13 points on the night.
Coach Scholes was happy with his 200th win, but he was quick to say the game wasn’t about him. It was all about his players and their hard work and effort this season. “It was the most complete effort of the season to date,” he said. “We have the ability to get better and better. We need to keep growing as a group.” At 6-0, the Hornell Red Raiders are ranked 8th in NYS Class B by the New York State Sportswriters Association for the week ending December 17th.
The Red Raiders have one more home game before Christmas break. They’ll host the Dansville Mustangs Wednesday night with JV to play at 5:30 and varsity at 7pm.
