Lady Falcons get much-needed win

RUMFORD -- The Mountain Valley girls' basketball team put up "one down and seven to go" regarding its remaining schedule and each player realizes the situation.

The vision is certainly pointed in the right direction as Brooke Dolloff scored a game-high 20 points and the ball-hawking defense stepped up in the second half for the Lady Falcons who pulled away for a much-needed 46-32 win against Lisbon at chilly Puiia Gymnasium.

Mountain Valley (3-8) has been known for falling behind early and then having to play catch up. However, this time the players on the court gave a solid effort for 32 minutes. The Falcons raised their intensity level and disrupted the Lisbon offensive execution.

It was a big third quarter that opened up a double-digit lead and the Falcons never looked back. The ability to crash the boards proved to be a key as Dolloff, Addy Gorham (seven points) and Mackenzie Gallant each scored off offensive rebounds. On two straight possessions, Brena Brown stole the ball, dribbled down the right side and shot from the hip for two baskets for a 31-21 lead.

“That was huge,” said MV coach Tammy Gallant, who praised the team effort. “This was a big confidence boost. After our zone hadn't worked, we swiched to a man-to-man and got up in the faces of the Lisbon players. The girls are getting comfortable with the defense."

Lisbon (4-7) was paced by Breeann Sautter (nine points) and Mia Durin with eight points, but was hindered by the lack of a consistent attack. Denise Thomas pulled down 13 rebounds, but was dogged closely by the Falcons Jena Ploude and Gorham.

"We were able to mix it up a little," said Falcon guard Darbi Brown, who scored eight points and had several steals in the second half. Lisbon had some very quick guards (Bailey Madore (six steals) and Durgin. We was able to negate their first step."

MV was able to be patient with the ball and run its offense. They alertly placed the ball in Dolloff's hands throughout the fourth quarter. The senior had 10 rebounds, three steals and was 10 of 13 from the free throw line. Three Greyhounds fouled out of the game. Falcons shot 36 percent and made 22 turnovers, while Lisbon shot 42 percent and 29 turnovers.

"I was able to use some different rotations tonight," said coach Gallant. “The kids got a breather and recognized mistakes."