Waterford comes up just short against TVC-Hocking leader Southern
By: Jaxon Keane
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RACINE, Ohio (WOUB) — The 6-8 Waterford Wildcats entered Friday’s game facing a tough matchup against the 10-2 Southern Tornadoes, who remained undefeated in the TVC-Hocking. The two teams previously met in an offensive showdown earlier this season, with the Wildcats falling by just nine points. This time, Waterford was looking for revenge, while Southern aimed to keep its divisional winning streak alive.
The Tornadoes opened the first quarter with an aggressive approach, but the Wildcats kept the game close by resorting to their three-point shot. Waterford knocked down four straight three-pointers to take a 12-9 lead at the end of the first quarter.
The second quarter told a different story. Southern opened the period with two consecutive three-pointers to regain the lead and continued to apply pressure by pushing the tempo. Reed Brinager kept possessions alive with strong rebounding but still found ways to score with his jumper.
Despite the Tornadoes’ run, the Wildcats stayed within striking distance by sticking to their perimeter-oriented offense. A late surge kept the game tight heading into halftime, with Southern leading 31-29.
Southern came out of halftime with suffocating defense in the third quarter, limiting Waterford’s offensive opportunities. On the other end, the Tornadoes attacked the paint, converting several tough layups. The game grew increasingly physical, leading to multiple fouls and rising tempers. Southern maintained its advantage, leading 43-39 entering the fourth quarter.
The Tornadoes’ aggression continued in the final period, as their defense remained physical and disciplined. After another slow start to the quarter, the Wildcats began to rally. Finn Pennock scored two tough layups when the offense seemed clamped, keeping Waterford within reach.
The Wildcats eventually cut the deficit to one possession with under a minute remaining, but it wasn’t enough. Clutch free throws from Brinager sealed the win for Southern, 52-47.
Next week, Waterford returns home against Warren on Tuesday, while Southern stays at home to face South Gallia.