Cougar boys dominate Andies, 56-34

DIXFIELD -- Caleb Turner led all scorers with 16 points and Cody St. Germain recorded a double-double as the Dirigo boys' basketball team dominated in a 56-34 triumph against Livermore Falls.

The Andies were looking to avenge a 46-44 loss to Dirigo. However, it wasn’t meant to be. The Cougars started fast with five three pointers in the first quarter and never let up, putting Livermore Falls in a hole that was impossible to crawl back from.

“The big difference against them this time was having our point guard back,” said St. Germain. “Caleb was sick the last time we played them. Tonight we were able to push the tempo and having the early lead helped.”

Turner (16 points, three treys, four steals, three assists) and Josh Turbide (10 points) had two treys each and Spencer Ross made one as the Cougars led by double digits early.

Dirigo showed a tremendous amount of hustle and moved the ball well around the perimeter. The team defense was a factor, especially by Ben Holmes, who guarded Andies' standout Mike Armstrong.

“We knew Armstrong has been a force,” said Holmes, who held Armstrong to two baskets through three quarters. “Then on offense we pushed the ball up the court and was able to pass it in over the top. That gave us some good looks at the basket.”

The Cougars took control by scoring the first seven points of the second quarter. Germain (14 points, 10 rebounds) hit a jumper, while Holmes (six points, 10 rebounds, two blocks) scored on a power move. Sophomore guards TJ Frost and Hunter Ross each contributed by playing solid defense. A Frost trey from the baseline gave the Cougars a 35-22 lead at halftime.

“The kids are playing with more confidence,” said Dirigo coach Rebecca Fletcher. “Plus we are developing greater depth so who ever plays is contributing. When you look at the box scores, there are two or three different scorers each night.’’

Livermore Falls was led by Hunter Brett (14 points) and Mike Castonguay (12 points). An underhanded scoop shot by Holmes made the score 50-28 entering the final period.

“Coaches pounded it in to our heads all week that this was a big game,” said St. Germain. “We have (three games left after hosting Telster Monday) and we need them if we want to get a high seed for the playoffs.”

The Cougars, who shot 46 percent, committed 11 turnovers and made five of nine free throws.