POLAND DEFENSE SILENCES STRUTHERS

Defense was the story of the night for Poland. They got their first NE8 win Thursday night over Struthers 50-40.

Poland still is trying to find a solid rhythm in their young season. Lucky for them they have a suffocating defense to hold teams down while they find it. In the first three-quarters of the game, the highest-scoring frame for Struthers was 10. And in the first and third quarters they were held to 2, and 3 respectfully.

On the offensive side of the Ball, the Bulldogs got started quickly with 8 fast points. But then they stalled for a bit as the first quarter bled into the second. Poland’s perimeter game was not as on as it was earlier in the week vs Champion. Poland went 2/11 from three point land on the night. That didn’t stop sophomore Morgan Kluchar from having a great night on the glass. She led the team in rebounds with 10. Helping Poland limit Struthers to one opportunity, and giving them some extra opportunities on the other side. Poland rebounded well as a team totaling in 26, with 4 players having at least 5. The Poland lead was 40-15 in the 4th quarter before a majority of the varsity starters subbed out. Struthers made a fierce rally to close the gap, but Poland still came away with the 50-40 win.

Jackie Grisdale led the Bulldog charge with 14 points. Kailyn Brown had a strong night with 8 points and 6 rebounds.

Emma Elia finished with a game high 19 for Struthers.

Poland returns to action Monday as they host South Range.