Bulldogs and Wildcats turn in exciting finish to regular season in Greater Neuse

Monday February 15, 2010

To close out the regular season, #20 Southeast Raleigh welcomed #18 West Johnston, in a preview of the first round of the Greater Neuse conference tournament.  The visitors were looking to extend a two game winning streak, while the hosts were trying to prevent a two game skid.

Southeast Raleigh used late flurries in the 1^st and 2^nd quarters to pull within one point of West Johnston at halftime 25-24.  Ben Jacobs was a rebounding force with Tyrone Davis, as it seemed difficult for the Bulldogs to make any headway inside.

Southeast Raleigh was at their best when coming hard off high screens and penetrating.  West Johnston had difficulty keeping the quicker Bulldogs in front of them all night.

For first year Wildcat head coach, Christopher Bennett, the 3^rd quarter had to be a rollercoaster.  After being outhustled for a large portion of the period, West Johnston surged late to take a 42-35 lead into the 4^th quarter.

In the final stanza, the teams started to trade baskets and a good flow developed.  it became evident the Bulldogs wanted to send a message to the Wildcats, ultimately outscoring them 22-14 in the 4th.  Southeast guard Andre Smith scored 13 of his team-high 19 points in the period, as the Bulldogs mounted their comeback.

West Johnston did everything they could to stave off the hosts, holding their advantage until there was just 22.2 seconds to play, when CJ Moore was fouled.  Moore’s free throw gave Southeast just their third lead of the game at 57-56 and was his only point.  How important a point can be.

With time winding down, the Wildcats had two shots and two tip attempts to win the game, but could not convert.  Both teams will get another shot at one another on Tuesday night, with a little more on the line.

 West Johnston’s Mark Parker led all scorers with 21 points.  Shaquille Dance helped the Wildcat effort with 16 points.  Joshua Newkirk was the Bulldog’s second leading scorer with 15 points.

Kerry Smith

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