The Norris City-Omaha-Enfield Fighting Cardinal basketball resumed action in the Greater Egyptian Conference Tournament Thursday evening when they ventured back to Southeastern Illinois College to take on the Galatia Bearcats.
This contest started out all NCOE as they quickly jumped out to the 18-10 lead following one quarter of play. This offense slowed down slightly in the second quarter for the Fighting Cardinals, as they were only able to record 15 points but their defense also started to relax as they allowed Galatia 16 second quarter points. This would find the eight point advantage shrink to seven at intermission.
Following halftime, both teams hit the court and played dead even throughout the third quarter of play as each added 19 points to their total to bring the score to 45-all heading into the final stanza of play. This fourth and final frame is where the Bearcats could do no wrong on the offensive end as they would somehow convert on almost every scoring opportunity they were allowed. This offensive burst of energy allowed Galatia to go on a 19-12 run to tie the game and force overtime. Overtime was not friendly for the Fighting Cardinals as they were only able to score a total of two points. This along with six points from Galatia allowed the Bearcats to pull off the 70- 66 come from behind victory against NCOE.
Jack Riggs scored 13 points to lead the Fighting Cardinal offense while others scoring for NCOE (6-12) were Brandon Skaggs 12 points, Joe Melton 10 points, Ty Money eight points, Trey Simmons eight points, Colton O’Neal six points, Jaden Barton four points, CJ Richardson three points, and Houston Money two points.
NCOE goes back to work Friday evening when they wrap up GEC tourney play against the Carrier Mills Wildcats.
