MACA boys turn back Bulldogs of Milbank

Michael Anderson played the National Anthem on bagpipes before the start of the Tuesday, 1/3, game. What a unique rendition! (B.W. photos)
Riley Arndt shoots over the outstretched arm of a Bulldog.
Austin Dierks drives past the Bulldogs on a night that saw him score a team-best 24 points.

Sharpshooting from the freethrow line helped propel the MACA boys to victory Tuesday night at home. The Tigers got their fifth win by a score of 74-65 over their South Dakota foe: Milbank.

The freethrow numbers were 19 of 27. In total field goals the MACA stats were 26 of 52. There were three successes from three-point range in ten attempts. Three different individuals made those long-rangers: Tom Holland, Tyler Henrichs and Logan Manska.

Austin Dierks was "in the zone" with his offensive play as he poured in a team-best 24 points. He led in rebounds too with nine followed by Henrichs with six and Chandler Erickson with five. Erickson led in assists with four and steals with two.

Dierks was one of three double figures scorers, joined by Riley Arndt with eleven points and Manska with ten.

Let's wrap up the scoring list: Erickson (8), Henrichs (7), Holland (6), Brody Bahr (4), Jake Torgerson (2) and Sam Mattson (2). Coach Mark Torgerson had his Tigers apply a vise-like defense in the closing stages.

The Bulldogs of Milbank were led in scoring by the talented Nick Mears (28 points). The Bulldogs made 25 of 51 shots from the field (two of six in 3's) and were 13 of 17 in freethrows.

What an interesting night to enjoy basketball! The Morris Area Chokio Alberta fans were treated at the outset to a rendition of the National Anthem on. . .bagpipes! This little enrichment in music complemented the satisfying winning outcome. Michael Anderson was the showcased musician.

The Tigers are working to increase their margin over .500 as we get into 2012. Where will it all end in March? As Chris Berman of ESPN says with bravado: "That's why they play the game!"
The Tigers will host BOLD on Thursday, 1/5.

- Brian Williams - morris mn Minnesota - bwilly73@yahoo.com