By DAN BARILE
Eagle Times Correspondent
SPRINGFIELD, Vt. — It’s been a tough year for the Mount Anthony Patriots, but even with their struggles, the Division 1 program has presented a challenge for several smaller schools on their schedule.
In pursuit of their second win of the season, Mount Anthony (MAU) engaged in a heated battle with Division 3 foe Springfield on Friday night at Dressel Gymnasium. The Cosmos and the Patriots went back-and-forth throughout the first three quarters before Springfield took control of the game during the final frame to secure a 73-58 victory.
After honoring seniors Jacob Bennett, Cam Williams and Braden Wright prior to the game, Springfield raced out to a 13-5 edge by the end of the first quarter.
The Patriots weren’t about to go away easily, however, and proceeded to go on a 13-2 run during the second period to tie the game at 20 with 3:16 remaining until halftime.
Springfield continued to keep MAU out of the driver’s seat, but the Patriots remained close, trailing 47-44 by the end of the third quarter.
Things became chippy during the fourth quarter, but the Cosmos did a good job of maintaining their composure. MAU struggled to do the same, and one of their player’s was assessed a technical foul with about six minutes remaining in the contest. With the Patriots players seemingly struggling to remain focused on the task at hand, the Cosmos capitalized. Springfield poured in 26 points over the final eight minutes to come away with a 15-point victory.
Bradley Gallant scored 13 of his 26 points during the fourth quarter to pace Springfield. Nick Wiese was next for the Cosmos with 21 points and Jameer Cosby added 15. Kelly Callanan was the top scorer for MAU (1-16) with 21 points.
Springfield is now 8-8 on the season and is slated to travel to White River Valley, Twin Valley and Rivendell this week.
