Final score Hornell – 68, Pavilion – 53
From Hornell High School Athletics, photos by JC’s Photography
The Hornell Red Raiders beat the Pavilion Golden Gophers 68 – 53 in front of their home crowd Wednesday night.
The Red Raiders led throughout the highly intense and physical game, however the visiting Golden Gophers got within 6 points with just over 3 minutes left in the 4th quarter before the Red Raiders went on 12 – 3 run to close out the game.
“Tonight we did enough to win, but I thought we made too many mistakes,” commented Hornell coach, Kirk Scholes. “We had a ton of unforced turnovers that we have got to clean up. We will always take a win, but we know we have to play better.”
“I thought Marco played great tonight. He had two really good days of practice on Monday and Tuesday and I thought it carried over tonight. He played hard and played with a spirit and confidence that we need from him. He did it on both ends of the floor and rebounded really well too.” Picco netted 12 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 steals in the win.
“Overall, I thought the bench played really well,” continued Scholes. “I was happy with the way they defended. We were half way through the 4th quarter and I just liked the way they were playing together.” The Raiders started the 4th quarter with a 49 – 39 lead, but the Golden Gophers cut that lead to 6 with three minutes left to play. “I was most pleased with the way we finished. Pavilion cut it to 6, and instead of panicking, we answered with a quick 7 – 0 run.”
Reflecting on senior captain, PJ Picco, Scholes commented, “PJ played a good game, but I expect him to do that. He needs the ball and we have to look to get him the ball in certain areas of the floor.” PJ led all scorers with 21 points on the night. He also tallied 6 rebounds, 7 assists, and 7 steals.
Also scoring for the Red Raiders was Wyatt Evingham with 11 and Aaron McInerney with 9. The Red Raiders tallied 10 3s on the night.
“I give Pavilion a lot of credit. They played hard and competed all night. They have a scrappy team,” said Scholes.
Pavilion was led by Landon Stoddard who had 20 points. Also scoring in double figures was Liam Campbell with 13 points, 8 rebounds, & 6 assists, and Joe Meehan with 12 points.
The Raiders travel to Dansville Friday night for a LCAA D1 match-up with the Mustangs.
