"Marlboro Mustangs Girls Basketball Lose A Tough One Against Old Bridge 62-54"
Old Bridge highschool hosted the NJSIAA Tournament, First Round, Central Jersey Group 4 against Marlboro Mustangs in a win or go home game. This could be the last game for seniors Erica DiSimone, Varsha Simha and Amanda Castro with Marlboro as they get ready for their next journeys. Both teams were locked in, focused and ready to go. Can Marlboro extend the season for the three seniors or does Old Bridge hold home court.
It was a offensive struggle in the beginning for both teams as they were trying to find their way. The defenses started of strong, set the tone early and forced tough shots early. Free throws was the theme in this game with Old Bridge establishing that early going to the basket and putting pressure on Marlboro's defense. They scored 10 points and gave up only 7 with both defenses having the momentum early heading into the second quarter.
Marlboro's offense started to get open looks, much better shooting, getting to the basket and having some momentum in the second quarter. They were able to space the floor and move the ball around to find those buckets. Old Bridge defense was struggling in this quarter but still shot the ball well also. Marlboro had 16 points while giving up 12 as the Mustangs took a one point lead into halftime at 23-22.
Old Bridge got the momentum back in the third quarter and fourth outscoring Marlboro 40-31 combined in those quarters. Their shooting and defense was a lot better in the second half but Marlboro did a great job of keeping it close trying to get the lead back. The free throws were huge as both teams missed some big ones that was a difference of this game. Old Bridge was able to hold onto the lead and win 62-54 to advance.
This was a close one at the end, give credit to Marlboro, they had a fantastic season and Erica DiSimone looking like Kareem Abdul -Jabbar with the sky hooks shots against Old Bridge.
Congrats to Marlboro Mustangs seniors Erica DiSimone, Varsha Simha and Amanda Castro on a great highschool career as they get ready for their next journey.
Top scorers for Marlboro Erica DiSimone 25 points and Lia Villa 14 points.
Top scorers for Old Bridge Gabrielle Walker 22 points and Leena Tran 16 points.
Photo Credit Mike Franco, Franco Sports Photography.