By Doug Higgins
Republic County came out with the hot hand as they jumped to a 9-0 lead while holding Lyons scoreless for more than half of the first quarter. But Lyons finally got the offense on track and went on to a 47-38 win.
Lyons led 11-10 as the first quarter ended. Lyons would lead at the end of each stanza, as the score was 27-20 at halftime. Lyons opened the third quarter with a 30-20 advantage, but Republic County clamped down defensively, not allowing Lyons to score the remainder of the quarter while the Buffaloes pulled to within four points at 30-26.
The fourth quarter belonged to Lyons as they outscored Republic County 17-12. Lyons outrebounded Republic County 24-22. Lyons had 15 turnovers while the Buffaloes had 24 turnovers.
Paco Espinoza led the Lions with a game-high 17 points and a game-high 10 rebounds. Tegan Link was also in double digits with 12 points.
Republic County was led by Connor Martin, who also had a game high of 17 points.
Lyons improves its record to 8-13 and 2-6 in the NCAA standings, while Republic County falls to 10-4 and 2-6 in league play. Lyons will be at home Tuesday to play Sacred Heart in an NCAA league contest.
Republic County girls 40, Lyons 29 – Lyons led 11-10 after the first period, but surrendered the lead to the Lady Buffaloes 22-20 at halftime.
Republic County opened up an eight-point lead in the third period as the Buffaloes outscored Lyons 11-5. Republic County closed the game behind a stingy defense to win 40-29.
Republic County outrebounded Lyons 35-28, but the pesky Lyons defense forced 24 Buffaloes turnovers while committing only 13.
Republic County was led in scoring by Kylie Stone with 17 points.
Leading the way for Lyons was Hayden Linden in double figures with 12 points.
Republic County advances its season record to 5-13 and 2-8 in league play. Lyons is now 2-16 for the season and 0-9 in NCAA action.
