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MaKenzie Fairbanks split the BlueStreak’s defense on her way to a lay-up. Staff photos Brian Larsen
On a night when neither team could make a three-point shot, defense and low post play would be the keys to winning the Vikings versus Eveleth-Gilbert matchup. That and a five-point play.
That’s right, the Golden Bears scored five points on one possession.
The events unfolded this way. Viking sophomore forward Kamryn Johnson, a tough but clean player — came out hard to block a three-point shot by one of the Golden Bear players. Unfortunately, Kamryn got more of the player than the shot and as she spun around her hand hit another Golden Bear player in the face. No foul intended, but the referees explained to the coach — even though it was clearly an accident– Kamryn would be charged with two fouls, although the fans in the stands agreed the second foul was unintentional.
Needless to say, the player who was fouled when she was taking the three point shot made all three of her free throws.
Next, the second player who was unintentionally fouled stepped to the foul line and calmly made both of her free throws.
Kamryn Johnson (14) watches as her free throw hits nothing but net.
Five points on one possession. Might be a first!
But give Eleventh credit, on this night in the end, the Golden Bears were just tad bit better than the Vikings, and the Vikings fell 56-48 victory in a hard-fought game.
The game was played in Eveleth on February 14.
Once again senior forward Rhonnie Poyirier had a big night for the Vikings. Although the rebound stats, steals, and assist stats weren’t available, Poyirier excelled in all phases of the game and scored 27 points. She was the only Viking in double figures. MaKenzie Fairbanks had nine, Kamryn Johnson eight, and Katie Peck had four points in the contest. No other Vikings scored.
The score at halftime was Eveleth 24, Vikings 19, a five point lead, and the Golden Bears had just enough cushion to win.
With the loss the Vikings record is 3-13, and the Golden Bears record moved to 7-16.
The girls’ last two games of the regular season are home games. The Vikings play Cromwell-Wright on February 25 at 6:30 p.m. and then the next day face Fon du Lac Ojibwe at 1 p.m.
According to Max Preps, the Cromwell-Wright Cardinal’s won-loss record is 12-1 in league play and the Cardinals boast a 17-4 overall record. Fon du Lac Ojibwe Ogichida doesn’t have a win but they lost by one point to the Silver Bay Mariners, so this could be a good game.
Come out and cheer for your Vikings!
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