Slow Start, Big Finish for Golden Bears
Slow Start, Big Finish for Golden Bears
Shannon Findlay
Top Performers
UofA- C.G Morrison 18 points
RMC- Simon Dakin 12 points
Edmonton, Alberta– It was early in the second quarter that the match-up between the University of Alberta Golden Bears, and the Royal Military College Paladins looked like it would be closer than expected. Following a back and forth pattern of scoring streaks, the first quarter had ended with a tie. Two minutes into the second quarter, a three point shot from Paladin’s forward Matthew Wookey pushed the visitors score ahead 16-13.
“It was one of those games where you come out and you think you’re ready to go and you’re not quite ready. They took advantage of us early, but our guys responded well,” said U of A coach Greg Francis.
The response came quickly. The moment RMC pulled ahead, the Bears turned up the intensity for another scoring streak. U of A’s senior C.G. Morrison reigned down three point shots from the outside while sophomore Jordan Baker worked the paint to keep a scoring threat inside as well.
By the end of the first half the Golden Bears had managed to pull ahead for a score of 36-26. It would be the last time the Paladins would have any chance of catching the Bears.
Baker continued to be a whirlwind of talent, shifting from post positions to guard with ease. Baker is returning to the Golden Bears after playing for Canada’s Development Men’s National Team this past summer. He brings to the floor both confidence and experience.
“Jordan Baker played well for us,” said Francis. “He plays so many positions for us, but I thought he made us tougher tonight.”
By the end of the third quarter it was already apparent what the game’s outcome would be. U of A had reached a 19 point lead, and the tempo had noticeably slowed down for both sides.
One last drawn out quarter left the final score at 91-44 for the Golden Bears. Making the top of the score sheet for U of A was C.G. Morrison with 18 points, and for RMC Simon Dakin with 12 points.
