Panthers play through adversity in two games

ALBERTON – The Alberton Panthers saw two defeats when they played at home against Seeley-Swan and in Lincoln.

When the team went against Seeley-Swan on Friday, January 31, they faced a final score of 24 to 72. According to Head Coach Dan Moe, the team played hard in all four quarters. He attributed the loss to Seeley-Swan’s speed and pressure.

While the team made a strong play, they had some problems. Moe said they were able to pull in some good statistics across the board but continued to run into difficulties with their shooting ability.

“[We] showed good improvement executing out offense but had difficulty converting shots,” said Moe.

Senior Andrew Lommen was a strong scorer for the Panthers as he brought in eight points. Fellow senior Kier Sanzano was an equally good player as he brought in six points of his own.

Moe noted Lommen and said he had a big night. The coach also mentioned eighth grader Creighton Callison for how he handled the ball.

When the team went to Lincoln on Saturday, February 1, they had a closer game. The final score against the Lynx was 50 to 52.

Moe said there was a good effort from the entire team and the guys kept focused on the game. He recalled the team fought back hard to take the lead. By the end of the first half, Alberton was trailing close with a score of 16 to 25.

Lommen continued to shine as a top player of the team as he brought in 21 points. Sanzano was also at the top of the game as he brought in 13 points. Moe noted both boys for their performance.

“Andrew and Kier had breakout games offensively,” said Moe.

Moe also praised the rest of the team and said everyone had strong moments throughout the game. He gave special mention to freshmen Nick Turnbull and Miles Vaillancourt for their good plays coming off the bench. Moe said these plays helped the team avoid foul trouble in the game.

Callison and senior David Stafford also had some strong shots, which were able to pull the Panthers ahead in the fourth quarter.

After all, it was a good weekend for the Panthers. After a slow start in the first quarter, the guys were able to keep up with Lincoln. Moe said the team’s practice sessions had begun to pay off as the team was able to compete harder and in a more determined way this week.

“We are beginning to play through adversity and disappointment in a more consistent fashion,” said Moe. “This has allowed us to make some big steps forward.”

The Panthers were supposed to play a game against Drummond on Thursday, January 30, to make up a cancelled game earlier this season. However, the game was cancelled again due to poor road conditions. This game has been rescheduled for Monday, February 10, in Drummond.

On Friday, February 7, the Panthers will play at home against Drummond. This is a separate game from the make up game on Monday. The guys will also play in Victor on Saturday, February 8.