By Sam McClanahan
The Pendleton County Wildcats have reached the midway point of the regular season and currently sit at 7-8 overall. Although the team has already surpassed its win total from last season, there's still plenty of room for improvement according to head coach Mason Monroe.
"There have been some frustrating losses in recent weeks and we have to regroup and identify what needs to improve in order for us to have success in the second part of the regular season. We have the talent and ability to reach our goals for this season but it's going to take the best effort from everyone," he said.
The Wildcats dropped both of their matchups last night, first to Scott High from the 37th District at home on January 4 and then to Benton High from Illinois on January 6 in Clark County.
Pendleton County fell 66-50 to Scott and the loss marks the 18th consecutive time the Eagles have bested the Wildcats. The last time the Wildcats defeated Scott was in February of 2006. After a slow first quarter start for both clubs that saw Scott claim an 11-6 lead, the Eagles enjoyed a strong second quarter effort that saw them go ahead by double-figures. Pendleton County struggled on the offensive end and could not pull down timely rebounds as they trailed 29-16 at the half.
In the second half, Scott maintained their advantage and would see their lead balloon to over 20 points as they cruised to the win. The Wildcats would be lead in scoring by senior Alex Beyst who had 19 points. Fellow seniors Hunter Cox and Austin Kirsch had 11 and 10 points respectively.
The Wildcats were defeated 63-39 to Benton, IL in the Tim Short Automotive Classic held at George Rogers Clark High School. The loss marked the second time this season that the Wildcats were held below 40 points. After falling behind 11-0 to start the game, Coach Monroe pulled the starters and gave an opportunity to some of the younger players on the varsity roster. Freshman Kamden O'Hara made the most of his minutes as he scored nine points, all during the first half, to lead the team.
This week, Pendleton County hits the road for three matchups beginning with a January 9 clash with Montgomery County. On January 11, the team ventures to Bourbon County and on January 12 they'll conclude with a bout at Robertson County.