Mustangs Blister Arch Rival Novi

     Six minutes into the game, things were not looking to good for the host Mustangs on Tuesday night.  They trailed 10-7 and couldn't seem to get anything going.  That is when Coach Todd Sander had seen enough and called a time out to inspire his team.  "We needed a little dose of defensive intensity to get our offense rolling", he said with a smile during the post-game press conference.  Apparently, whatever transpired in that huddle worked.  The Mustangs exploded on an 18-5 run to end the half firmly in control, 25-15. 
     The focus continued well into the second half as our squad stretched the run to 27-5 while holding the Wildcats to a meager 2 point output for the 3rd quarter.  When the smoke had cleared at the end of three, the Northville boys led 37-17.  The final stanza saw the Mustangs hold off an attempted rally, effectively break Novi's press, and make free throws to put the victory on ice.
     Assistant Coach Sean Turner was rightfully jubilant after the game.  "We got a strong effort, balanced scoring, and saw some real fire in our player's eyes tonight...and best of all", he exclaimed, "we whooped our cross-town rival."  "But", he cautioned, "we can't rest because they are a quality team who we have to play twice more this season.  Tonight was just our night.."
     Thanks to statistic master Jeff Jacobs, we have accurate numbers on the scoring.  Eight Mustangs got in the scoring column this evening, a new high mark for the season.  Dan Simms led all scorers with 11 points, Andrew Meacham had 9 points to go with his 12 rebounds, while David Morrissey got his stroke going and knocked down 9 on 3 triples.  Andrew Stevens and Nathan Kellum each had 6 crucial markers, Malik Bazzi had 4 while Dan Baldwin and Joe Hewlett contributed 3 each.  All in all a tremendous team effort to keep the Stangs in the hunt for the coveted division title.
     Our student section continues to come out and make a big difference to the Mustangs.  Tonight was no exception, a near record turnout.  Athletic Director Bryan Masi was proud of the student's spirit and their friendly competition with their rivals.  "I think our kids were nearly perfect fans this evening", he gloated, "we hope they will keep supporting the team as they have been.  I think the free pizza was a fitting reward, well deserved."  Mr. Masi was also proud of the overall basketball program for the last two nights.  "We finished 5-1 vs. Novi this week, with our lone defeat coming against a strong girls varsity squad."
     Next action will be at home against South Lyon on Friday evening.  It is a key matchup with both teams needing a victory to stay in the hunt.  We hope to see you in the gym!