LONDON — South Laurel turned in a stellar defensive effort while capturing its first win during the process on Saturday.
The Lady Cardinals outlasted Pikeville in the Legacy Nissan Classic by recording a 45-30 win.
“Proud of how hard we played and mental approach was good on defense,” South Laurel coach Tod Windlan said. “Thought our team defense was very good in half court, rotated well and took No. 4 and No. 23 out of the game.
“(Skeeter) Mabe and (Maci) Messer played well on both ends and Mabe was great at the free-throw line, hitting 9-of-10, and passed the ball well. Messer took the ball to the basket well. Overall, a very good team win. Go Cards.”
Both teams started slow, but the Lady Cardinals managed to grab a 9-8 edge entering the second quarter.
South Laurel limited Pikeville to only two field goals in the second quarter while outscoring the Lady Panthers, 11-5, to take a 20-13 lead into halftime.
The Lady Cardinals continued to clamp down defensively, allowing only six made field goals the remainder of the game to pick up the win.
Messer led South Laurel with 15 points while Mabe added 13 points. Jamie Buenaventura scored nine points while four players scored two points apiece.
Winland’s squad will be back in action Friday against Southwestern.
