Cold Spell Freezes Mustangs

     The Northville Mustangs played as if they were trapped in a polar vortex Friday night in Plymouth as they went down to a disappointing 58-42 defeat.  To the hearty fans who braved the elements, it looked as if our normally reliable shot-makers were shooting into the high winds.....nothing would fall.  The loss drops the Mustangs to a still respectable 7-5, but 2 games behind Salem with 4 division games remaining.
     Northville struggled from behind all evening.  Salem jumped out to a 6-0 lead and never let up.  They led 10-8 after one quarter, 23-15 at the half, and 40-30 at the end of the third, before cruising home to the victory.
     "Let's credit Coach Brodie and his Rocks with a solid game plan and terrific effort out there tonight", said Coach Todd Sander.  "They played with patience and confidence, and they made all their shots."  For his part, Salem coach Bob Brodie was feeling elated, "That is the best game we have put together this season," he said from the locker room, "Northville is a talented squad.  We were fortunate to catch them on a night when they were a little off, and we were hot. I won't be surprised to see them a third time in the conference tourney finals."
     Perhaps a key factor in the game was Salem's ability to slow down high scoring Andrew Meacham.  He finished the game with a single basket and 6 points.  Malik Bazzi topped Northville with 10, followed by David Morrissey with 9, and Andrew Stevens and Daniel Baldwin with 6 each. 
     An off night for the Mustangs for sure, but this is high school basketball, so there is much opportunity still ahead, no time to rest.  If the Mustangs can hold serve and get victories in their remaining division games, they will get a two seed in the conference tourney, which they are certainly capable of winning if they get on a roll.  After that, we have the always exciting league final at home this year.  And finally, they biggest event of the season is the State Tournament, this year in Canton.  Northville will open that tournament by facing arch rival Novi, and move on from there.  Lot's of great games and excitement ahead for true Mustang Basketball Fans. 
     Speaking of fans, please remember that Tuesday nights are pizza night at the Stable after home games.  And the next one is next Tuesday vs. Stevenson.  Free pizza for all students attending the game. That night is also teacher appreciation night when each Mustang player honors his favorite teacher with a great ceremony at halftime.  We are looking forward to having a huge crowd to honor our fine teachers.....and to celebrate as the Stangs get back on their next winning streak.  See you then!