Whether the product of Christmas break doldrums or superior opponents, the Dove Creek Bulldogs boys basketball team had a tough week.
Conditioning a problem
Beginning their post-Christmas schedule at home against Monticello on Jan. 9, the Bulldogs built an early lead before falling 58-31.
Leading a balanced first quarter attack for the Bulldogs was sophomore point guard Jordan Ernst, who, utilizing a combination of scoring and passing, helped the Bulldogs build a 12-6 lead.
“We came together as a team,” said Ernst of the first quarter. “We played some of our best basketball of the season.”
Continuing to play well in the second quarter, the Bulldogs held onto their advantage, leading 22-21 entering the half.
From halftime on, the Bulldogs fell apart however, trailing 38-29 after three quarters 58-31 after four.
“I think we just lost our intensity,” said Bulldogs’ senior Tyson Smith. “We were getting a little exhausted.”
Leading the Bulldogs against Monticello was Ernst, who recorded 10 points, three rebounds and three assists.
Overwhelmed in Mancos
Hoping to rebound with a win in Mancos on Jan. 10, the Bulldogs hung tough early before losing 72-31 in what turned out to be a lopsided contest.
After playing well during the first quarter, which ended with the score tied at ten, the Bulldogs were sunk by a balanced Mancos scoring attack that saw eight Bluejays score at least eight points.
Leading the Bluejays to a 36-19 lead were Daniel Christiansen, Adrian Hernandez and Nigel Henry, who each scored 12 points in the game.
Pacing the Bulldogs with 14 points was Spencer Gatlin.
With their record now at 1-7, the Bulldogs will next play at home against Montezuma-Cortez High School’s junior varsity team on Jan. 14.
