Boys’ basketball loses opener to Taunton
By Mike Berger
Matt Kelley is one of several talented seniors on this year’s team. (Mike Barucci photo)
It was a far cry from last year’s 85-41 season-opening loss, but the Canton High boys’ basketball team once again fell victim to a very talented Taunton team, losing 75-54 at home Friday night.
To the Bulldogs’ credit, they came within five points of tying the game with 7:50 left in the fourth quarter, but the Tigers used their speed and quickness and defensive pressure to force several Canton turnovers and take permanent control of the game.
The Tigers, who finished 16-6 last season, are just as good if not better than last year and are CHS head coach Ryan Gordy’s pick to win the Hockomock League’s Kelley-Rex Division. On Friday Taunton led pretty much most of the game, including 17-16 after the opening period, 36-27 at the half, and 53-46 after three quarters.
“The big difference is the easy baskets,” said Gordy after the loss. “We had to work hard for everything. When we turned the ball over, they were quick enough to make easy baskets. They are a very solid team. There’s nothing they can’t do.”
Taunton head coach Charlie Dacey said after the game that despite the margin of victory, the game was not easy for Taunton. “Canton made us work hard,” he said. “They were scrappy. Fortunately, we wore them down and used our quickness and defense to cause turnovers and easy baskets.”
Commenting on his team’s performance, Gordy said that when the Bulldogs play their game, including tenacious defense, little or no turnovers, and good shooting, they “can play with anyone.”
Senior captain Sam Larson, who was Canton’s leading scorer last season, finished with a team-high 18 points in the loss, and fellow senior captain Tristin Morris chipped in with nine points. Returning senior Ato Botsio and junior Derrick Harris also played well, adding some spark off the bench.
The Bulldogs also return sharpshooter Matt Kelley as well as Scott Olshaker and Paul Swart. Other team members include Dom Bires, Nick Charles, Hudson Cerruti, Rui Depina, and Woanyen Mahn.
The Bulldogs play 16 league games and four nonleague games this season, including a home and away series against Fairhaven.
Under the new MIAA alignment, Canton is now in Division 2 and must win a minimum of 10 games in order to reach the postseason. Teams can no longer gain playoff eligibility simply by winning half of their games against division opponents.
This week, the Bulldogs were due to host Milford on Tuesday and Oliver Ames tomorrow at 6:30 p.m.
Short URL: https://www.thecantoncitizen.com/?p=23436
Posted by Mike Berger
on Dec 19 2013. Filed under High School, Sports.
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