Knights bounce back to top Cards in Arlington, 78-65

Junior Marcus Hayes (15) in action against St John's

Bishop Ireton got off to a fast start at Bishop Denis J. O’Connell Friday night, but the Knights regrouped in the second half to pull away to a 78-65 win, the Cardinals worst setback of the season. With the loss Ireton fell to 8-7 on the season.

With Patrick Hanafin returning to the lineup from an injury, the visiting Cards broke out to a 21-20 first quarter advantage and widened the lead to 38-31 at the half. Senior Antonio Rouse led the Ireton squad early in the contest and ended the game as the Alexandrians’ high scorer with 21. Marcus Hayes continued his strong season adding 18, sophomore Davon Wiley chipped in 9.

Whatever the speech at halftime, O’Connell’s Coach Joe Wootten should have recorded it. O’Connell blistered the Cardinals in the third quarter by a 25-11 count and the seven point Ireton advantage melted in the process. With the Knights holding a 56-49 lead heading into the final quarter the Cardinals played the dangerous game of catch up and the risky efforts turned into many easier opportunities for the Knights who cruised to the win.

O’Connell was led by B. Hunt with 25 points, Fergeson had 19, Savage 12, and Trimble added 10 for the hosts.

Things didn’t get better for the redbirds as they dropped a Sunday matinee in Godley Gym to Good Counel 72-59, a disappointing loss for the once 8-3 Cardinals now mired in a 5-game skid. Ireton hosts PVI Wednesday in Godley before the Eagles of Gonzaga visit Cambridge Road. Varsity tipoff is 7:30 for both contests, the evening begins with freshmen basketball at 4pm.