Wildcats Fall To Todd Central After Strong First Half

Rebels Defeat Wildcats 58-40

Edmonson County's Braden Wall (22) lays the ball up over Todd Central's Mareke Johnson (2).

Darren Doyle, story: Madison Doyle, photos:
The Wildcats faltered in the second half after a solid performance in the first half against Todd County Central in the Rafferty's/Double Dogs Caveland Classic at Edmonson County High School on Monday night.

Edmonson County led 22-21 at the half with help from Trace Taylor's 13 first half points and Braden Wall's ten, first half rebounds. However, the Wildcats didn't do well against increased pressure from the Rebels in the third quarter, as Todd Central started the third with a 9-0 run. They outscored the Cats 18-9 in the quarter, which was enough to keep the lead for good, as they went on to win 58-40.

Trace Taylor puts up a shot between multiple Todd Central defenders on Monday night.

Edmonson County was uncharacteristically 1-13 from the three point line (7%), which hurt them tremendously against the quicker, more athletic Rebels.

Led by Trace Taylor's 21 points and 4 rebounds, the Cats only had 5 turnovers at the half; however, they had that many more in the third quarter alone, which helped the Rebels in their early second half run.

Braden Wall finished with 9 points and 12 rebounds, Braxton Highbaugh added 3 points and 6 rebounds, Zander Bass had 3 points, and Tyler Anderson, and Cole Saling each added 2 points.

Edmonson's Braxton Highbaugh, attempts to wrestle the ball away from two defenders.

Coach Brad Johnson said he was obviously surprised at the poor three-point shooting effort from his team.

"We can't beat a quick, athletic team shooting 1 for 13," he said. "We drive it, then we cut, and that has to leave a three open, and we gotta knock some of those in. If we just shoot a normal, say, 5 of 13 from threes, then we have 15 more points, and it's a different game. But give them (Todd) credit, they're very well coached, well schooled, and played hard."

Coach Johnson said he was proud of the Wildcat effort; however, the execution fell just short of the goal.

Edmonson County is now 4-4 on the season and is scheduled to take on Monroe County tonight in the second night of the Caveland Classic at ECHS, which is scheduled for a 7PM tip off.