Sports
Vinton County Wreaks Havoc on TVC
By: Tyler Corbit
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The Vinton County Vikings got out to a fast start, and entered the week at 3-0 in league play and 4-0 overall. Trying to repeat as league champions, the Vikings were determined to leave no doubt as to whether or not their boat would stay afloat. Standing in the way of the Vikings this week was the River Valley Raiders and the Zane Trace Pioneers.
The Vikings opened up the week with an 87-68 win against the Raiders. It was a game for the first quarter, with Vinton County only leading 17-14. Head coach Matt Combs said that after the first quarter, the fast Viking team was able to dictate the pace and wear down River Valley. Aside from dictating pace, a well balanced attack was crucial for the Vikings, who had five players in double figures.
Naylan Yates would lead the offense for the Vikings, as the trio of Yates, Bartoe and Jones would continue to wreak havock as they so often do.
After dispatching of the Raiders on Tuesday, attention then turned to the Pioneers of Zane Trace. The Vikings made quick work of the Pioneers and cruised to a 79-49 victory.
“Defense has been our first priority this season,” Head Coach Matt Combs said. “It wasn’t just our total points that was important for our defense, but how many turnovers we were able to create to set a tone.”
Combs noted that of the Vikings 20 first quarter points, it felt that over half came off of turnovers. On the offensive side of the ball the Vikings were led by a strong performance from Tristan Bartoe, who had 27 points, Naylan Yates had 13 and Derick Jones also added 10 for the Vikings. The Vikings were able to play their entire bench in the game.
“Although some guys may have a little more experience than some others, I feel confident putting any player in during the game,” Combs said.
Depth has been and will be what the Vikings will need if they are to continue their dominance in the TVC-Ohio.
Next week Vinton County takes on Southeaster and Chilicothe, so my sure to check in during the week for updates.
After what looked like a shaky start to the season, the Lady Vikings were able to right the ship this week, going 2-1, to move the team’s record to 4-5 overall and 2-2 in conference play.
Although the Vikings week started with a hiccup against Amanda, losing 62-29, Head Coach Rod Bentley saw the game as a learning experience for the young Lady Vikings.
“They (Amanda) are one of the best division three programs in southern Ohio as well as the entire state, and we have a long way to go.”
After the loss to Amanda the Lady Vikings were able to bounce back by beating Wellston 55-39 and then by beating Athens 47-27. The two wins have coach Bentley feeling like possibly competing for another league title is possible.
“After these two wins, we really feel like the season is back on track and we can definitely compete in this league again.”
Leading the way for the Lady Vikings this season has been the dynamic duo of Cassie Bentley and Sammy Thompson. Both are a double-double threat on any given night and were able to play well even in the team’s toughest games.
The biggest issue plaguing Vinton County this season has been taking care of the ball. If the Vikings do a better job holding onto the ball, they can very easily get back into the TVC title race.
Next week the Vikings play South Webster before going back into league play against Meigs, looking to get back to above .500 on the season.