SALEM’S DEFENSE TELLS THE STORY

The Salem Lady Quakers came into Monday looking to rebound off of their first defeat of the season on Saturday. Standing in their way was a United squad, winners of six straight, looking to cement their status as one of the area’s best teams. The Quakers behind a strong first quarter outlasted the upset minded Eagles 36-25 in Hanoverton on Monday.

Salem, behind a hounding man to man defense, led by their guard duo of Abbie Davidson and Rylee Hutton dictated the pace early as the Quakers raced out to a 12-4 lead. United guard Addyson Blazer would help gather the Eagles offense in the second quarter as her squad would outscore the Quakers in the frame making it 19-13 at the break. Each team came out of the locker room looking to separate themselves early. The separation came by way of the offensive rebound for Salem.

The Quakers opportunities in the second half would come off of countless second and third chances to score. Despite the rebounding difference, Salem would struggle to score as United stayed within striking distance 30-23 heading to the fourth quarter.  That would be as close as the Eagles would come the rest of the way as the United offense just could not capitalize on opportunities in the fourth quarter.  Salem, only having made 3 field goals the entire second half, did their job from the free throw line during the game shooting 16-21 and ultimately sealing the victory. Abbie Davisdon converted from the line all night going 8-11 leading the way for Salem with 13 points. Rylee Hutton contributed 12 points, 6 rebounds and 6 steals in victory.

Addyson Blazer led United with 11 points and 6 rebounds. Grace Knight added 5 points and 6 rebounds for the Eagles. Salem (7-1, 4-1) continues their tough schedule as they travel to Canfield on

Wednesday. United (6-2, 5-0) will take on another tough out of conference opponent on Wednesday as they welcome Crestview to Hanoverton.

*Contributed By YSN’s Chris Sigler