St. Patrick's boys win a tight one over Bath

On Friday January 11th, the Bath Bees visited Portland for a match with the Shamrocks. The fans were treated to an exceptional contest throughout the game, with the Shamrocks pulling out a very tough win by a score of 55-51.

The 1st quarter was a back and forth, with neither team being able to establish a large lead. The Shamrocks hit a 3 pointer at the end of the quarter to take a 20-19 lead. Scoring was brisk by the Shamrocks, hitting 6-7 from 3-point land.

The 2nd quarter was tight again, with the Defense playing a little stiffer. Still the Shamrocks extended their lead, winning the quarter 14-12. Offensive spark was provided by an exciting 2-minute stretch between cousins Brandon Scheurer and Nathan Lehnert who had back to back layups for Lehnert from great passes by Scheurer.

Bath fought back in the 3rd quarter, ultimately winning the quarter 16-14. More great shooting from Nathaniel Leahy kept it close, and the Shamrocks took a 48-47 lead into the 4th quarter.

The 4th quarter was even more excitement as the Bees took a lead with around 5 minutes left, only for the Shamrocks to pull it together in the final minute. With 22.7 seconds left and the game tied, a center court foul left Graham Wohlsheid making two free throws and giving the Shamrocks a 53-51 lead. After a missed 3 pointer by the Bees, Brandon Scheurer grabbed the rebound and was fouled with 5.4 seconds left. Scheurer made both clutch free throws and gave the Shamrocks the win. The Shamrocks held the Bees to only 4 points in the quarter, and made 7 for 8 free throws to pull out a great victory.

Offensive leaders were Nate Leahy with 14 points 6 rebounds and 4 steals, Brandon Scheurer had 10 points 8 assists 6 rebounds and 3 steals, Sam Mauren had 10 points and 5 rebounds, and Graham Wohlsheid had 8 points and 3 rebounds.

Coach Mark Scheurer was obviously ecstatic to have been part of such an exciting and electric atmosphere. "What a great high school game and atmosphere to play in. Fans and teams from both schools were into the back and forth contest that went right down to the wire. I thought our team defense and offensive ball movement was really well done. The good ball movement led to open looks at the basket, where we made a season high 12 three pointers in the game by six different players."

The Shamrocks next play away at Potterville next Tuesday, January 15th.