Staff Writer
HODGDON – Last Monday’s game at Hodgdon was tight between the visiting Southern Aroostook Warriors and Hodgdon Hawks. But, the Warriors took a one-point halftime lead and busted the game open in the second half for a 71-38 victory.
Houlton Pioneer Times photograph/Gloria Austin
DRIVING – Dakota Sleeper of Southern Aroostook drives by Hodgdon’s Robert Crane for a hoop during Monday’s game. The Warriors second-half spurt broke the game open.
In first-half action, SACS’ Dakota Sleeper had 20 points, as the Warriors took a 25-24 lead at halftime.
Then, the Warriors erupted offensively, as more players were involved in the offensive flow. The Warriors outscored Hodgdon, 46-14 over the second half. Sleeper, who had numerous assists, ended the game with 30 points, while Tyler Robinson collected 20 points, many on transition points.
For Hodgdon, Chris Williams netted 12 points.
In the second half, the Hawks came unraveled and the Warriors capitalized.
“They have to understand that good teams make runs,” said first-year Hodgdon Coach Tyler Putnam. “We have to compete for four quarters. We must be able to keep positive and be able to compete at a high level when our backs are against the wall.”
In the decisive second half, unforced turnovers hurt the Hawks, and they were visibly discouraged.
“Not every call, play, or bounce will go our way, so we must be able to accept that and continue with the same effort during those times that we have during the times when those plays are going our way,” Putnam said. “It was a good learning experience for the young guys because they understand that success will not come when you only put in a half days’ work.”
