Defense Defines Road Rout Over Spring Arbor
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SPRING ARBOR, Mich. – No. 9 Taylor (16-0, 4-0 CL) traveled to Spring Arbor to take on the Cougars (6-9, 1-3 CL) for a Saturday afternoon contest, picking up a 78-39 victory. The Trojans posted their best defensive performance with a season-low 39 points allowed, while holding the host squad to just two points in the second quarter.
Following a slow opening period, TU took control in the second stanza with a 20-2 showing, giving the team a 15-point halftime advantage. SAU was unable to score through the first six minutes of the quarter, as the Trojans forced four turnovers, while holding the Cougars to one-of-15 shooting from the field.
The Taylor offense also quickened the pace in the second period, nearly doubling its first quarter output. Merideth Deckard notched the final seven points of the half, helping TU to an 11-0 run through the last three minutes of the quarter.
For the first time in her career, Jamie Netzley collected at least 10 points in back-to-back contests, netting 11 points, seven rebounds and four assists through 26 minutes of action. The senior guard has been rolling with three 10-point outings in her last four games, converting at a 57.1 percent-clip from the planks.
Rebounding was another key to victory for TU, as the visitors outrebounded SAU, 44-29, while corralling 13 offensive boards.
TU cruised to its 33rd-consecutive regular season and 23rd-straight Crossroads League win in the second half. The five starting seniors for the Purple and Gold logged 25 of the team’s 28 points in the third stanza before a crew of young talent finished off the final seven minutes of the game with a 13-3 rally.
Abby Buchs and Becca Buchs were the top two scorers for the Trojans for the third-consecutive game on Saturday, finishing with a combined 35 points. Abby Buchs led both teams with 18 points, going seven-for-12 from the field and three-for-six from downtown. The 5-11 guard also contributed a team-high eight boards. Becca Buchs continued her strong year from beyond the arc, nailing five treys for the eighth time this season.
The Trojans will return to Odle Arena for their next matchup, facing No. 13 Saint Francis (12-3, 3-1 CL) on Wednesday at 7:00 pm.
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