The Republic Lady Tigers found themselves in a familiar spot tonight with a 60-41 win over the Willard Lady Tigers. With this COC Large win, Republic extends its flawless season to 21-0.
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Republic shot poorly in the first two quarters, but led 33-26 at the half. Republic led by nine after the 3rd period (44-35) and showed up with a quicker offense in the 4th quarter. Alex Botkin scored seven of Republic's 16 points for the 4th period.
Republic held Willard to only six points in the 4th quarter.
Republic head coach Kris Flood knows his team has a habit of leaving an opening in the first-half.
"We didn't play real well the first-half. We do a better job the second-half. We get a lead, we're able to hold off, get some stops. We're still trying to battle, and it's getting to the point where we've got to figure out how to play four quarters together," said Flood.
Sarah Kreul played with a face mask, courtesy of a broken nose she received during last week's match with Neosho. Kreul contributed to her team's win by scoring five points.
"Obviously, it's going to take time for her to adjust to that mask. She doesn't have any peripheral vision," said Flood.
Willard head coach Mike Percival credits his team for pushing hard against Republic in the first-half.
"Republic looked like they were a little lackadaisical in the first-half, but they can turn it up a notch when they need to. I think we lost our focus in the second-half. A team like that won't give you much leeway," said Percival.
Alice Heinzler posted 27 points for Republic--including three treys.
Republic is ranked No. 2 by the Missouri Basketball Coaches Association. All Republic Lady Tigers teams are undefeated for the season all the way through their ranks, down to 7th grade. They will host Ozark on February 14.
Willard travels to Neosho on Thursday.
Willard 10 16 9 6 -- 41
Republic 16 17 11 16 -- 60
Willard: Amber Percival 17, Ali Perry 10, Chelsea Yates 7, Shelby Barrett 3, Caitlyn Carpenter 2, Mariah Stewart 2
Republic: Alice Heinzler 27, Alex Botkin 16, Tori Taylor 7, Sarah Kreul 5, Lindsey Carlson 3, Kayla Bartelsmeyer 2
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