After just 29 points scored between the two teams in the first half, the Vinton Lions put 30 points up on the board in the third quarter en route to a 59-46 win over the East Beauregard Trojans on Tuesday night in Vinton.
The Trojans took a 19-10 lead at halftime in what was a defensive battle in the first half.
"I told them at halftime to stay calm and stay composed," said Vinton head coach Jason Tharp. "We scored 10 points in a half, which is unbelievable for us. But we weren't really worried about it.
"I told them that they had to show some fight and they couldn't get frustrated."
And did the Lions (4-13, 3-7) ever show some fight.
Vinton opened the second half with a 6-0 run to cut the deficit to three, 19-16. Then a minute later, the Lions put together a 20-2 run that closed the third quarter while forcing eight turnovers in the last four minutes of the period for a 40-25 advantage.
"I told them that we are going to amp up the defensive intensity in the second half," said Tharp. "It was excellent (to see). We really got after them defensively. Not only did our guards put a lot of pressure up top, but the big guys rotated which made us able to make those steals."
Of the 20 points, 12 came off East Beauregard (8-12, 2-6) turnovers in the last few minutes of the quarter.
The Trojans cut into the Lions' lead to start off the fourth quarter. East Beauregard started off the period with 14-4 run to cut the deficit to six, 44-38 capped off by Cody Trahan's three-pointer from the left corner.
Vinton was able to regain composure and outscored the Trojans 15-8 in the last four minutes of the game to seal the 59-46 win.
Doc Roberts led the Lions with 21 points, 13 of which came in the third quarter. Senior Michael Pickett scored 14 points and Jarrod Anderson added 10 points.
Corey Townsley led East Beauregard with 19 points in the game with Justin Rutherford adding 12 points.
NOTE: Tuesday night's game was the last home game for senior forward Michael Pickett.
Vinton, La. —
