“I told the boys that I’ve never seen one team outplay another one like we did tonight and still lose by six.”
Coach Jimmy Goebel doesn’t get angry very often, but his comment following Wednesday night’s loss in the opening round of the Jr. Cardinals’ Regional tournament, summed up the frustration felt by all NCOE fans and players in attendance at Gallatin County school that night.
Hardin County played a good game, but were helped greatly by some questionable officiating in the second half. It was a pitiful display by officials, who for some reason showed unquestionable bias against NCOE.
Bad calls aside, NCOE played hard, showing the grit and determination that had carried them well the last few games. Still, it wasn’t enough in the face of mounting adversity from the Cougars and officials, and their season was ended prematurely 46-40.
“Give credit to Hardin County; they came out to play tonight, and did well, but we were still the better team.” Goebel said. “I hate the way this game was taken from our boys, and it’s going to leave a bad taste for a while. Overall, our season was a success, just in the way we improved as individuals and as a team. They deserved better than what they got tonight.” Gallatin County won their game against Pope County, and defeated Hardin County easily on Friday night to advance to the State Tournament.
