Trojans lose hard-fought games to Fort Scott

By Camden McFarland

camden@hometowngirard.com

The Girard Trojans’ girls and boys basketball teams both moved their records for the season to 8-4 after falling to the Fort Scott Tigers in close games last night.

During the girls’ game, it was a constant battle for the Lady Trojans to capture the lead but they stayed in reach throughout the entire game.

Girard came out strong in the first quarter with speed on their side, as they kept the Tigers on their toes and outscored them 11-9 to establish a lead.

Fort Scott went for a run in the second quarter, scoring 21 points to steal the lead. However, Girard stayed in check with 15 points to bring the score at the half to 26-30.

After the half, the Lady Trojans amped up the intensity to take back the lead by scoring 13 points and holding Fort Scott to eight.

Heading into the fourth quarter with a one-point lead, the pressure was on Girard to hold their fast pace and outrun the Tigers.

The Lady Trojans gave their all to earn the lead, but could not capitalize on a final shot to determine the fate of the game.

With a final score of 51-53, the Lady Trojans received the loss.

Girard’s Sydnee Crain led the team’s offense throughout the night, scoring 23 points.

Despite having an overall record of 8-4 now, the Lady Trojans’ league record remains 1-0.

During the boys’ game, it was a constant show of ups and downs as Girard and Fort Scott fought to match intensities.

In the first quarter, it was obvious speed would play a key role throughout the game. Girard’s speed caught the Tigers by surprise and earned them an immediate lead, but Fort Scott quickly adjusted to finish the first quarter with the 13-11 lead.

The Trojans solidified their defense in the second quarter, and Fort Scott could only manage to score seven more points. Right before the half, Girard stole the lead to bring the score to 22-20.

Fort Scott was not prepared to let Girard pull away in the third quarter, so they took their turn to lock down on defense. The Trojans worked their way through to score 10 additional points, but Fort Scott topped that with 16 points.

Once again, speed came in to play its role in the fourth quarter as both teams raced for the lead.

The Trojans’ offensive performance was impressive, as they pushed past Fort Scott defenders with ease to score 18 additional points. Unfortunately, Girard’s defense was not nearly as solid and Fort Scott pulled ahead to finish the game with 22 more points.

With a final score of 50-58, Girard’s overall record was moved to 8-4, while their league record remains at 1-0.

Caleb Muia led the Trojans’ offense throughout the night, scoring 18 individual points.

Girard’s teams will have the opportunity to improve their league record in a matchup against the Frontenac Raiders Tuesday, Jan. 30.