The Loudonville girls’ basketball team (15-1, 4-0) had a 13 day break between games, and there was a bit of rust showing for the Redbirds, who lost 67-51 to Warrensville Heights for their first defeat of the season.
The Redbirds, who were on a 15 game winning streak, came out of the gate looking like they were picking up where they had left off. They led 17-14 after one quarter, with Corri Vermilya taking charge with an 11 point opening frame.
However, the Tigers outscored the Redbirds 17-10 in the second quarter to take a 31-27 lead at halftime. Vermilya led all scorers with 15 points in the first half.
In the third quarter, Warrensville Heights edged out the Redbirds 14-16 and the Tigers finished out strong with a 20-10 in fourth quarter.
Coach Tyler Bates, who welcomed a baby daughter into the world the night before, said the final score was not really indicative of the game. He pointed out that his squad led after one and the Redbirds were within striking distance most of the game. The key to the loss was missed layups at pivotal moments, and letting the game get out of reach in the fourth quarter.
Coach Bates commended his team’s effort on the road against a tough opponent.
“I am proud of our girls for traveling an hour-and-a-half during the school week into a hostile environment and competing against a state-ranked Warrensville Heights team,” Coach Bates said. “They definitely sped us up and forced us into some uncharacteristic mistakes, but for three quarters - this was either team's game for the taking.”
Despite taking the first loss of the season, Bates said the goal was never to go undefeated, but rather to improve throughout the season so they can be at their best come tournament time.
“Games like this can help us improve on some areas of weakness, but it doesn't just happen - we have to show up and do the work. I am confident that we will,” Bates said.
Vermilya put up huge numbers once again, with 23 points, 21 rebounds, four assists, four steals and three blocks. Her sister, freshman Mya Vermilya, also had a strong game with 13 points and four boards. Sophia Spangler tallied eight points, Addison Wolford scored five points and Alesha Felix had a two point showing.
Warrensville Heights was led by the senior duo of Chelsea Johnson and Leilani McNeill, who had 19 and 15 points respectively. McNeill had five boards, four steals and three assists. Johnson just missed a double-double with nine rebounds. Brie’anah Hill also played well with eight points and 11 boards.
Loudonville has a huge non-conference test coming up on Jan. 31 against Colonel Crawford (15-1, 8-1), who have won their last four games. Tip off is at 7:30 p.m.
