STRUTHERS ENDS DRAGONS SEASON; ADVANCE TO POLAND

STRUTHERS OH- The Struthers Wildcats got their tournament run off to a great start Saturday afternoon beating Niles 61-34.

The third meeting between the two teams started out very competitive. With Struthers putting all eyes on Niles leading scorer Nae Fryer, her supporting cast was able to get some space. Struthers held just a 15-14 lead after 1. Niles stuck around in the second quarter even though Struthers started to stretch their lead. At the half it was an eight point Wildcat lead.

The second half was all Struthers as their defense began to clamp down on the Dragons. Turnovers led to easy transition layups. Emma Elia also showed great toughness finishing through contact multiple times. Struthers nearly doubled their first half total in the third quarter, putting up 22 in the frame to lead 47-29. Niles was only able to score five more points the rest of the way and the Wildcats came away with the 61-34 win.

Emma Elia led Struthers with 21 points. Renee Leonard also had a strong day with 15 points and 7 assists.

Nae Fryer led the Dragons with 15.

Struthers advances to the sectional final on Thursday at Poland. Tip is set for 7:00.