'Stangs Unable to Pull Off Upset

Brick Memorial traveled to Howell as the Shore Conference Tournament began Tuesday, hoping to pull off an upset of the 12th-seeded Rebels.

Despite a hot start and a strong comeback, the Mustangs -- playing the role of underdog -- came up just short.

"We played hard," said Memorial head coach Ed Sarluca. "We didn't play necessarily well, but we played hard."

The 'Stangs opened up fast and secured a 15-9 lead after the first quarter of play. Excellent balance was the key as six Mustangs scored as senior Noland Edwards led the way with five, including a three pointer.

Howell erupted with a 13-0 run to start the second quarter, however, and the Mustangs faced a 26-20 deficit by halftime.

"They came out, started trapping and we didn't adjust well. Give [Howell point guard, Ryan Keegan] a lot of credit, he's a great player and competitor, and really dictated the game to us," said Sarluca.

Howell's lead would reach 12 midway through the third quarter before Memorial steadily chipped away at it.

A 9-4 Mustang run to close the third quarter would cut the Rebel lead to nine as big men Rob Hirzel and Tim O'Shea added five and for points, respectively, in the period.

O'Shea's exciting steal, as well as a dunk, energized the Mustangs and pushed Howell to the brink.

"Our kids just don't quit," said Sarluca. "We played hard, we play hard defense, and we finally got a couple buckets to fall. Too little, too late."

Memorial wound up within two points with just a few seconds left before Howell's Keegan sank two free throws to put the game out of reach at 52-48.

"I'm not happy because we lost," said Sarluca. "But I know we played hard and gave everything we got. We'll need to make a move in the state tournament."

Hirzel lead the Mustang effort with 13 points, followed by fellow seniors Noland Edwards with nine and Tim O'Shea with eight. Guard Vince Lombardi scored six.