Missed Free Throws and Turnovers Lead to the Falcons’ First Home Loss, 44-33, to a Taller Gilbertsville Team
By Evan H.
Isaac M., with 15 points and seven rebounds and Jens J., with eight points and 7 rebounds, kept the score close in The Family Foundation School game against Gilbertsville (GMU) on December 2 at the Falcons’ nest.
The Falcons came out on fire, winning the tip and scoring the first basket. Gilbertsville answered back immediately with a lay-up from Greg Talbot. Then, Gilbertsville set up in a full court press on FFS. However, it was broken and forward Adam S. scored from the elbow.
The Falcons continued to pass well and play team basketball, creating a 5-0 run. However, GMU scored 9 more points and held the Falcons scoreless for the rest of the quarter. The period ended with the score at 12-8, Gilbertsville.
The second quarter was scoreless for the first three minutes until GMU guard Cory T. scored from the free throw line, giving Gilbertsville two more points. By the end of the half, it was 20-13, Gilbertsville.
“I felt that we were going to win from the start, but then the tables turned and it all went downhill from there,” said Falcon fan, Josh W.
And that is exactly what happened. The chemistry that was apparent in the first half quickly died and GMU took over. The second half was where the score and time of possession really started to change. Although the Falcons seemed to get good looks at the basket, they weren’t able to capitalize, whereas Gilbertsville was.
Gilbertsville’s height advantage and ability to box out efficiently gave them many second chance opportunities.
Also, during the second half FFS had eleven turnovers and were 2 for 9 from the line.
“It was a tough loss. It’s hard to coach early in the season because we’re still figuring out who we are as a team,” said Head Coach Ted Towsley.
